
aass_fj_2i_ 



MINUTES OF THE COURT 

OF 

FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 

1652-1656 



Transited and edited 

by 

A. j; F. VAN LAER 
Archivist, Division of Archives and History 



VOLUME I 



ALBANY 

THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 

1920 



f 



'Bsj 



n£Ce>V£D 

OCT 261922 



The University of the State of New York 
Division of Archives and History 

August 17, 1920 
Dr John H. Finle^ 

President of the University) 
Dear Sir: 

I herewith transmit and recommend for publication the first 
volume of the Minutes of the Court of Fort Orange and Sever- 
W^c}^, April 15, 1 652-December 12, 1656, translated and 
edited by A. J. F. van Laer, Archivist of the Division of 
Archives and History. 

This is the first volume of a series of translations of Dutch 
manuscripts which form important sources for the early history 
of Nevv^ York State. Without these translations the student or 
historiographer of the early annals of our State will always be 
seriously handicapped. 

Though our historical scholars are generally competent to use 
French and German in their investigations, they are rarely found 
able to read Dutch with facility. Even those who are equipped 
to use the printed page in that language are unable to read cor- 
rectly manuscripts written in hands which are difficult of decipher- 
ment and which frequently require patient reconstruction by an 
expert in Dutch palaeography. 

New York is fortunate in possessing this material but its 
early history from a political, religious, institutional and economic 
viewpoint can not be easily written until the Dutch manuscripts 
which exist in New York City, Albany, Kingston and other 
places in the Hudson valley are translated and published in 
English. 

Very truly yours 
James Sullivan 

State Historian and Director 
Approved for publication 




President of the University and 

Commissioner of Education 

[5] 



PREFACE 

The court of Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck, whose 
minutes are published herewith, was erected by proclamation 
issued by Director General Peter Stuyvesant on April 1 0, 1 652. 
By virtue of this proclamation the main settlement of the colony 
of Rensselaerswyck was taken out of the jurisdiction of the 
patroon and created into an independent village by the name of 
Beverwyck, which afterwards became the city of Albany. The 
erection of the court was the final act in the high-handed pro- 
ceedings whereby Director Stuyvesant brought to a close the 
long standing controversy between the Dutch West India Com- 
pany and the authorities of the colony of Rensselaerswyck 
regarding the jurisdiction of the territory around the fort. 

Questions in regard to this jurisdiction had arisen as early as 
1632, when the patroon of the colony claimed that all the land 
on the west side of the Hudson river, from Beeren island to 
Moenemin's Castle (on Peobles island, at the mouth of the 
Mohawk) , even including the ground on which Fort Orange 
stood, had been bought for him, whereas the company main- 
tained that the territory of the fort, which was erected in 1624, 
six years before the purchase of the land of the colony from the 
Indians, belonged to the company and consequently was not 
included in the purchase. 

Perhaps to avoid the difficulties which were likely to arise 
from these conflicting claims, or for other reasons connected with 
the control of the fur trade, the patroon intended that the main 
settlement of the colony, including the church, the houses of the 
sheriff, the minister and the sexton, as well as the brewery and 
the dwellings of the tradesmen and mechanics, should be located 
in what was known as the Greenen Bosch, a pine grove on the 
east side of the river, opposite the company's fort. Definite 
instructions to that effect were given by him in letters to Arent 
van Curler and Domine Megapolensis, dated August 4, 1639, 
and June 3, 1642, and documents of later date seem to indicate 

[7] 



8 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

that before 1648 a substantial settlement had sprung up on the 
east side of the river. 

In a brief submitted by Brant van Slichtenhorst in 1656 to 
the district court of the Veluwe, in the Netherlands, the state- 
ment is made that on his arrival in the colony, in March 1648, 
there were, besides the patroon's trading house, but three houses 
standing near the fort; that in August of the same year eight 
houses had been built; and that at the end of his administration, 
in 1652, there was a settlement of about one hundred houses. 
Considering these statements in connection with various allusions 
to building operations which occur in the records, it seems that 
between 1648 and 1652, apparently at Van Slichtenhorst's 
initiative and probably for reasons of greater safety and con- 
venience, the settlers on the east side of the river gradually 
removed to the west side, in the immediate vicinity of the fort. 

The erection of these new houses soon attracted the attention 
of Director Stuyvesant, v/ho objected to their location on the 
ground that they endangered the security of the fort. Claiming 
that the jurisdiction of the fort included all territory within range 
of cannon shot, reckoned at 600 geometrical paces of 5 feet to 
the pace, he ordered the destruction of all buildings within a 
radius corresponding to this range, a distance which was after- 
wards estimated at 1 50 rods. The order called forth a vigorous 
protest from Van Slichtenhorst, who regarded it as an invasion 
of the patroon's rights and who proceeded with the erection of 
the buildings. A bitter controversy ensued, in the course of 
which various charges were brought against Van SHchtenhorsl, 
who was summoned to appear at the Manhatans and was there 
thrown into prison and detained for four months. At length, in 
the spring of 1652, being determined to settle his dispute with 
Van Slichtenhorst, Director Stuyvesant repaired to Fort Orange 
and there issued his proclamation erecting a court for Fort 
Orange and the village of Beverwyck, apart from and inde- 
pendent of that of the colony of Rensselaerswyck. 

The newly created court, which was termed a Kleine Banck 
van Justitie, an inferior bench of judicature, was a court for the 



Court Minutes, 1 652-/ 656 9 

trial of civil and minor criminal causes, from which an appeal lay 
to the Director General and Council of New Netherland. The 
court was composed of the commies, or commissary of the fort, 
afterwards bearing the title of vice director, and a variable num- 
ber of commissarissen, or local magistrates, often designated in 
English documents of the period as " commissaries." Of these 
the commies, who acted as prosecuting officer and who repre- 
sented the company, was appointed for an indefinite term of 
years directly by the Director General and Council of New 
Netherland, while the magistrates, at least in theory, represented 
the people and were appointed annually from a double number 
chosen by the inhabitants. When sitting as a criminal court, the 
officer presided and demanded justice of the magistrates, who 
not only found whether the accused was guilty, but also deter- 
mined the penalty that should be imposed him. 

The jurisdiction of the court comprised Fort Orange, the vil- 
lage of Beverwyck, Schenectady, Kinderhook, Claverack, Cox- 
sackie, Catskill and, until May 16, 1661, when a court was 
established at the Esopus, also the region around Kingston. 
Excluded from the jurisdiction was the colony of Rensselaers- 
wyck. which maintained its own court, side by side with that of 
Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck until 1665, when by 
order of Governor Richard Nicolls the two courts were consoli- 
dated. A record of the court of Rensselaerswyck for the period 
1 648-52, when it was presided over by Van Slichtenhorst, has 
been preserved, but no record exists of judicial proceedings after 
the last mentioned date. Considering that the majority of the 
tenants of the patroon had become burghers of Beverwyck and 
had their cases tried before the local court, it is fair to assume 
that the court of the colony of Rensselaerswyck was rarely, if 
ever, called upon to exercise its judicial functions after 1652, and 
that therefore no record was kept. 

As an illustration of the primitive conditions under which the 
court of Fort Orange and Beverwyck conducted its sessions, it 
is interesting to read the description of the first two buildings that 



10 Fort Orange and BeverTv^ck 

were occupied by the court. This description has been preserved 
in a memorandum which was presented by Vice Director La 
Montagne to the Director General and Council of New Nether- 
land on September 4, 1660, in justification of the expenditures 
incurred by him in building the second court house in 1657-58. 
The description of the original building is as follows: 

The old house was 26 feet and 9 inches Rhineland measure in length 
and two stories high, built all around of one inch boards and having a 
pavilion shaped roof, covered with old shingles, as said before. Under- 
neath was a cellar, 1 9 feet wide and as long as the width of the house. 
The first story had eight beams, resting on corbels, and was divided in 
two by a pine partition ; at the north end was a room, 1 6 or 17 feet in 
width, and at the south end a vestibule, 1 feet wide. The second story 
consisted of a single room used by the court, without ceiling or chimney, 
and to reach this room one had to climb a straight flight of stairs through 
a trap door. 

The old building, which stood close to the fort, on the present 
steamboat square, had by 1657 sagged at the north end in such 
a way as to crush almost completely the house of Lambert van 
Valckenburgh and its general condition was so dilapidated that 
repairs seemed useless. It was therefore torn down to make room 
for a larger brick building, which in the above-mentioned memo- 
randum is described as follows: 

A brick building was built, with two cellars, each 21 feet square, 
separated by a two-brick wall. The foundation of the said cellar is 3 or 
4 feet in thickness, built of substantial stone (hauled a distance of 1 6 
miles), 6 feet high, to the level of the ground, and on top of this is a brick 
wall, two feet high and three bricks thick, upon which rest the cellar beams. 
The first story is divided into three parts: at the north end is a room 21 
feet square, inside measure, with a brick chimney; at the south end a 
kitchen 1 6 feet in width and 2 1 feet in length, also with a chimney and 
provided with a bedstead and cupboard of wainscot; and in the middle 
a hallway 5 feet wide, separated from the large room by a one-brick wall. 
The upper story is divided by a half-brick wall into two equal parts, each 
21 feet square. At the north end is a room intended for the court; at 
the other end an office, in which are a wainscoted bedstead and a chimney. 
Access to this floor is by a winding stairway and a separate landing. On 



Court Minutes, J 652-1 656 11 

tKis landing there are three doors, one to the left, which gives access to 
the court room; another toward the front, which gives access to the office 
and which is faced by an oval window in the west wall; and a third door 
to the right, which gives access to the attic by means of a winding stair- 
case. This attic extends over the whole house and above it there is a 
loft, suitable for the storage of powder and other ammunition. In short, 
it is a strong and substantial house, the walls below and above (upon 
which the beams rest without corbels) being one and a half bricks thick, 
provided at each gable end with a double chimney, braced by 42 anchors 
and built of choice clinker brick. The house is covered with well burned 
tiles and in every one's opinion makes a strong, commodious and handsome 
structure. 

The records of the court, which under different names con- 
tinued to exist until the erection of the mayor's court of the city 
of Albany in 1686, have for the greater part been carefully 
preserved. They consist of eight books of minutes, all written 
in the Dutch language, of which six, containing the minutes 
for 1652-56, 1658-59, 1668-73, 1675-84, 1676-^0, and 
1680-85, are kept in the Albany county clerk's office, and the 
remaining two volumes, containing the minutes for 1657 and 
1 660, form part of volume 1 6 of the Neiv York Colonial Manu- 
scripts in the New York State Library. 

A complete calendar of the minutes, with the exception of 
those for 1657 and 1660, which are listed in the Calendar of 
Historical Manuscripts, edited by E. B. O'Callaghan, was pre- 
pared by Berthold Fernow, in 1894-95, under the direction of 
Wheeler B. Melius, in connection with the publication of the 
printed Index to the Albany county records, of which Mr Melius 
was the superintendent. A copy of this calendar, with editorial 
and genealogical notes by C. A. Hollenbeck, who used the 
pseudonym of " Jed," appeared under the heading " Historical 
Fragments " in the Sunday issues of the Albany Argus for 
October 18, 1903-April 23, 1905. 

Translations of the minutes for 1658-59, which are entered 
in a record entitled Mortgage[s] No. I, 1 652-1 660, were 
included among the manuscripts of the late Professor Jonathan 



12 Fort Orange and Beverwy^ck 

Pearson, which were recently placed at the disposal of the New 
York State Library by the author's sons and which, with the 
exception of these minutes, were published under the title of 
Earl^ Records of the City; and County of Alban}) and Colony 
of Rensselaersw])ck, but, as far as known, no full translation of 
the entire series of minutes has ever been made. 

That the oldest judicial and administrative records of the city 
and county of Albany should thus, for a period of more than 
two hundred years, have remained virtually a sealed book, is 
much to be regretted. It is surprising in view of the fact 
that as early as December 31,1 768, an act was passed providing 
for the translation of the Dutch records in the custody of the 
clerk of the city and county of Albany. The bill, which was 
introduced in the General Assembly by Col. Philip Schuyler, 
referred to a committee and favorably reported by Abraham Ten 
Broeck, makes no mention of any court records and was appar- 
ently primarily intended to provide for the preservation and 
translation of deeds and other writings which as the act says 
" greatly concern the Estates and property of the Freeholders 
and other Inhabitants of the said County, and in their present 
Condition are in danger of being lost." As another section of 
the act, however, refers to the turning over to the translator by 
the clerk of " all the Dutch Records and Writings remaining in 
his custody," it may be assumed that the court records were 
meant to be included. Whatever may have been the intention 
of the introducer of the bill, there is no evidence to show that 
any such translations as were contemplated by the act were ever 
made. 

The first book of minutes, of which a translation appears in 
the present volume, is a folio volume of 321 pages, which con- 
tain the proceedings of the court from April 15, 1652, to 
December 12, 1656. The handwriting in the book varies, the 
first part being apparently that of Joannes Dyckman, who was 
commissary of Fort Orange from 1651 until June 1655, when 
he was incapacitated by insanity. During the administration of 



Court Minutes, 1652^1656 13 

Joannes Dyckman, Pieter Ryverdingh was court messenger and 
for some time also clerk, and it is possible that some of the 
entries are in his handwriting. 

Johan de Deckere, who succeeded Dyckman, was appointed 
presiding commissary at Fort Orange on June 21 , 1635, and the 
minutes from July 1 3th of that year until July 1 7, 1 656, were 
kept by him. Johannes de La Montagne, who offered to go to 
Fort Orange on August 22, 1 656, was appointed the same day 
and received his commission as vice director on September 22d 
of that year. The first entry signed by him occurs under date 
of October 13, 1656, and appears to be in the handwriting of 
Johannes Provoost, who during the administration of La Mon- 
tagne was the clerk of the court. The court messenger at that 
time was Ludovicus Cobes, who received his appointment on 
August 7, 1656. For the period from October 4 to December 
12, 1656, an engrossed copy of the minutes is found in part 2 
of volume 16 of the New York Colonial Manuscripts, in the 
New York State Library, of which use has been made to supply 
the signatures to the entry of October 4, 1656, which are cut out 
of the original record, presumably for the sake of securing the 
autograph of Peter Stuyvesant, who on that date presided over 
the court. 

In making the translations, the effort has been to combine close 
adherence to the original text with a fairly fluent English render- 
ing, a task which in view of the technical character and often 
defective form of expression of the original minutes has proved 
most difficult. 

Albany, N. Y., Juhj 20, 1920 

A. J. F. VAN Laer 



COURT MINUTES 

1652-1656 

[1]^ In the name of the Lord, Amen 

Proceedings of the Inferior Court of Justice erected and estab- 
lished in Fort Orange b^ order of the Hon. Petrus Stuy- 
vesanl and the Hon. Council of New Netherland, pursuant 
to the instructions and the oath taken on the JOth of April 
1652, and the request of the burghers of the aforesaid fort 
and Beverivyck, situated within the established limits. 

Monday, April 15, 1652 
Present: 

Joannes Dyckman Abraham Staets Volckert Jansz 
Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, appearing before the court, 
requests that he may proceed with the erection of his house, as 
the prohibition and nonallowance thereof involve his, Vosburgh s, 
total ruin. 

Whereupon, it being taken into consideration that the house 
which he is erecting stands behind the dwelling of Commandant 
Brant Arisz van Slichtenhorst ^ and therefore does not greatly 
crowd or obstruct the fort, and seeing also the great expense 
already incurred by him, his request is granted. 



^ Figures within brackets indicate pages of the manuscript. Elsewhere 
brackets show material supplied by the editor. 

^ April 23, 1652, a patent was granted to Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh 
for " a parcel of land, ten rods square, adjoining on the south a lot and 
garden of van Slechtenhorst, on the north a vacant lot, extending from 
the side of the wagon road to the stockade in the rear." The original of 
this patent is in the possession of the Albany Institute and Art and 
Historical Society. 

(i.Sl 



16 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Whereas several persons have applied for permission to build 
on some lots between the two kills, it is after deliberation 
approved, wherefore Dirrick Jansz and Abraham Pietersz Vos- 
burgh are chosen and appointed surveyors to make a proper 
survey. 

[2] Upon the petition of Rut Arentsz to have a lot near his 
house, it is resolved to refer the same to a committee to be 
appointed for that purpose. 

Upon the petition of Hermen Bastiaensz, carpenter, for per- 
mission to erect a house commenced by him, as the petitioner 
incurred great expense even before the date of the prohibition by 
the Director General and Council and his house is not especially 
crowding the fort, being situated near the mouth of the first kill, 
consent is hereby given him to proceed with the building. 

Commissary Joannes Dyckman, Volckert Jansz and Cornelis 
Theunisz van Westbroeck are appointed a committee to look 
after the surveying of lots and gardens, but the Hon. Abram 
Staets is unanimously requested, in case his honor can be present, 
to assist the aforesaid committee. 

In accordance with the instructions, it is resolved that the 
regular sessions of the court shall be held on Tuesday of each 
week, at ten o'clock in the forenoon. 



Extraordinary Session, April 17, 1652. Post Meridiem 
Present: 

Jo: Dyckman Ab: Staets Vol: Jansz 

Cor: Theu: v: Westbroeck 

Jan Machielsz and Jacob Luyersz, plaintiffs, about charges 
of theft 

Sander Leendertsz, defendant 

The defendant states under oath that he brought no complaint 
against the plaintiffs, but that his negress circulated the story. 
Resolved, to examine the negress for further information. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 17 

[3] The instructions drawn up for the surveyors, Dirrick 
Jansz and Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, having been examined, 
are adopted, whereupon, being summoned to come into the room, 
they have taken the usual oath before this court. 

Jan Verbeeck, an inhabitant of Beverwyck, having appeared 
before the court, has taken the usual burgher oath. 

Jan Thomasz and Marten Hendrixsz, inhabitants of Bever- 
wyck, confirmed by oath before the court a certain affidavit for 
the behoof of Pieter Hertgers and Jan Verbeeck, concerning the 
discharge of the said persons from their duties as magistrates of 
the colony of Rensselaerswyck. 

The court messenger, Pieter Ryverdingh, has been allowed 
the following fees, to wit: 

For each citation, 6 stivers 

For each attachment, 12 stivers 

For each presentation of a petition, 4 stivers 



Tuesday, April 23, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: Westbroeck 

J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

Thomas Chambre, plaintiff, against Isaack de Forrest, 
defendant. 

Plaintiff in default. 

Volckgen Juriaens, plaintiff, about a blow with the fist and 
abusive words, according to deposition, against Geertruyt 
[Jeronimus] ,^ defendant. 

The defendant is for her abusive language and assault and 
threats made here against the court condemned to pay a fine of 
six guilders, with order to leave the plaintiff henceforth in peace. 

[4] Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff, against Willem Juriaensz, 
defendant. 



^ She was the wife of Jochem Becker, the baker. 



18 Fort Orange and Beverfv^cJi 

The dispute between the parties about the lot having been 
heard, it is resolved to adjourn the case until further advice from 
the Hon. General, who will be written to about it. 

Pieter Bronck, appearing in court, requests that he may take 
possession of the lot as staked out. The court, having heard 
Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck and listened to verbal argu- 
ments on both sides, refers the matter to magistrates Jan Labite, 
Volckert Jansz and Andries Herpertsz, to examine the same and 
dispose thereof. 

Jacob, the brewer, having requested permission to build an 
addition to his house, standing near the first kill, [the court,] 
taking into consideration that he has everything ready thereto 
and that the work can not be left undone without considerable 
loss to him, grants his request for very urgent reasons. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Ordinary Session, April 30, 1652 

Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff, for slander 
Jochem Becker, baker, defendant 

Jochem, the baker, is ordered to bring proof of his accusations 
at the next session of the court. 

Caspar Jacopsz appearing before the court and requesting that 
he may have the lot granted him by this court, between Jacob 
Adriaensz, wheelwright, and Tunis Jacopsz, consent thereto is 
given for certain reasons. 

[5] The court having considered the request of Jan van 
Hoesem to have the use of the lot on which he dwells and his 
garden, according to the resolution of the court of the colony, 
dated the 1 8th of January last, it is upon examination of the said 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 19 

resolution decided by this court that the lot and garden shall 
from now on be assigned to Jan van Hoesem, upon condition 
that Willem Juriaensz shall have the right to occupy the house 
in which he now dwells as long as he lives, it being recommended 
that he furnish proper accommodation for Jan van Hoesem. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, 
defendant. 

Defendant is ordered this day week to bring proper proof of 
the slanderous charges against the aforesaid commissary and 
president. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Ordinary Session, May 7, 1652 
Present: 

Jo: Dyckman J: Labatie Andries Herpertsz 

Rut Jacobsz V: Jansz 

Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Volckgen Juriaens, the wife of Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff, on 
account of slander 

Geertruyt, the wife of Jochem, the baker, defendant 

Styntge Symants declares that she knows nothing of the plain- 
tiff but what is honorable and virtuous. 

Defendant is ordered, on pain of severe punishment, to bring 
the proofs of which she has boasted into court on the next court 
day, when a decision will be rendered by this court. 

[6] Reyer Elbertsz, residing outside the limits of this fort, 
has been granted the use of some low land near the third kill, 
allotted to him to be fenced in and cleared of trees, and to have 
the use thereof until further order. 



20 Fori Orange and Beverrp])ck 

Upon the request of Wouter Aertsz van Putten to have a 
piece of land for a house lot and a vegetable garden situated 
near the cripple bush, behind Marten, the brewer's, it is decided 
to let him have the same as soon as he shall have taken the oath 
of allegiance to the company. Rut Jacobsz and Jan Labatie 
being appointed a committee to lay out the aforesaid land for 
him. This day the aforesaid Wouter Aertsen has taken the oath 
of allegiance. 

This day Juriaen Theunisz has denied under oath in court 
the charges brought a week ago in the matter of Commissary 
Dyckman and Jochem, the baker. 

Commissary Dyckman entering a complaint about insults 
offered to him by the person of Jacob Jansz Schermerhooren, it 
is ordered that the court messenger shall summon him to appear 
on the next court day. 

The ordinance prohibiting the tapping of wine and beer on 
Sunday during divine service is taken up again and adopted and 
published this day. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSEN 

VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 

Ordinary Session, May 14, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herbertsz 

A: Staets V: Jansz C: T: v: Westbroeck 

Jan Machielsz, plaintiff, against Cathalina Sandertsz, defendant. 
The defendant's first default. 

[7] Joost, the baker, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Hendrick van Driest, being summoned to appear, is asked why 
he enlarged his garden on his own account by moving his clap- 
board fence? The accused admits his guilt, whereupon Mr 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 21 

Abraham Staets and Jan Labatie are appointed to make an 
inspection and to take such measures as they shall see fit. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jacob Clomp, 
defendant. 

Defendant acknowledges that he drew his knife twice, but 
says that he was provoked thereto first. Case adjourned until 
the next court day. 

The request of Dirrick Bensingh, corporal, to have provision- 
ally a garden next to Ariaen van Alckmaer and to fence the 
same with palisades, is granted on condition that in case here- 
after other arrangements are made, he shall have to give up the 
same, and the bounds thereof shall be shown him by Mr Abra- 
ham Staets and Jan Labatie, appointed for that purpose. 

Volckgen Juriaens, wife of Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff against 
Geertruyt, the wife of Jochem Becker, the baker. 
Defendant being for the third time in default, it is decided 
to summon her for the last time to appear on the next court day, 
when final judgment will be given. Meanwhile she shall be 
notified that if she has any proofs to submit, she must do so before 
the aforesaid time, on pain of arbitrary punishment. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staets 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 
CORNELUS TONISEN 



[8] Extraordinary Session, May 29, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: Westbroeck 

J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

After examination of the letter and the points of the request 
concerning the amplification of the instructions for this court of 



22 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

justice, it is resolved to send the same to the deputies, Mr 
Abraham Staets and Rutger Jacopsz, who are at the Manhatans. 

A complaint having been made to this court by Volckgen Jans, 
that Jochem Becker, the baker, has put up a pigsty opposite 
the door of Jan van Hoesem, it is decided that whereas the said 
Becker has done this directly against the order of this court and 
also created an obstruction and nuisance to the house of the 
aforesaid Jan van Hoesem, it is ordered that he, Becker, must 
within the time of three days tear down the said pigsty and 
remove it to a more convenient place, on pain of forfeiting twelve 
guilders to the sheriff. 

Upon examination of the marginal annotation on the petition 
presented by Willem Juriaensz to the Director General and 
Council of New Netherland, it is resolved to abide by the reso- 
lution passed on the 30th of the preceding month. 

On the complaint of Jan Verbeeck about the running away 
of his boy to Margriet Willems, in view of the fact that accord- 
ing to the authentic copy of the contract he was bound for 
another year, the aforesaid boy is ordered by this court imme- 
diately to reenter his master's service, on pain of punishment to 
be determined for that purpose and Margriet Willems is ordered 
not to detain the aforesaid boy on pain of arbitrary punishment. 

Upon the request of Volckgen Jans, wife of Jan van Hoesem, 
for permission to erect a small bark house on her lot, the Hon. 
Volckert Jansz and Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck are 
appointed to point out to her a suitable place therefor. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 23 

[9] Extraordinary Session, ultimo May 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: v: Westbroeck 

J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, aged 25 years, and Maeriecke 
Ryverdinxs from Dansick, aged 24 years, having requested to 
enter the married state, permission is granted to have the first 
proclamation of the banns take place on Sunday next. 

Volckert Jansz, magistrate, plaintiff, about abusive language 
and assault, against Jochem Becker, the baker, defendant. 

The court having examined the documents in the case, it is 
resolved to send them to the deputies of this court at the Man- 
hatans, to be communicated to the supreme authorities there, 
whose order thereon they are to w^rite and forw^ard to us. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
Andries Herberts 
Cornelus Tonisen 

Post Meridiem 

Whereas Jochem Becker declared this morning that some 
members of this court immediately reported at the house of Jan 
van Hoesem what had taken place here in court, this is entered 
here with a view of questioning and examining the aforesaid 
Becker further about this matter and in case of lack of proof 
to punish him therefor by arbitrary sentence, as this tends greatly 
to the disparagement of this court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
Volckart Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
Cornelus Tonisen 



24 Fort Orange and Beverw^cl^ 

[10] Ordinary Session, June 3, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: Westbroeck 

J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

Volckert Jansz, in the name of Joost, the baker, plaintiff, against 
Pieter Bronck, defendant. 
Defendant is ordered to present to the court proper proof that 
the point of the plowshare is broken off and that he sent back 
a gun undamaged. When proper proof hereof is furnished, the 
court shall pronounce judgment regarding the claim of 50 
guilders [for damages]. 

Jan Machielsz, plaintiff, against Cathalina Sanderts, defendant. 

The case is adjourned until the next court day. 

It is resolved to have the palisades of the garden of the old 
Captain * pulled up, if he refuses to do it himself, and to give 
Jan van Hoesem permission to put new palisades around it and 
from now on to take actual and personal possession of the 

^^'^*^^"* Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 

Ordinary Session, Tuesday, June 11,1 652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

A: Staets V: Jansz C: Theunisz van Westbroeck 

R: Jacobsz 

Jacob Luyersen and Jan Machielsen, plaintiffs, against 
Cathalina Sanders, defendant. 
The negress is ordered to depart within the space of four 
days, on account of the false accusations brought against the 
fair name of the plaintiffs, either to the island of Cornelis 
Segertsz, or elsewhere, provided that she shall present the bill 



* Willem Juriaensz, baker. See Van Rensselaer Bowler Mss, p. 820. 



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Minutes of June II, 1652. in the handwriting of Joannes Dyckman 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 25 

for the costs of the suit to the persons with whom the negress 
shall come to live and cause the same to be paid to the plaintiffs, 
but the aforesaid plaintiffs are ordered promptly to pay the court 
messenger what is due him 

[11] Jacob Luyersz, plaintiff, against Jacob Flodder, defend- 
ant, for slander. 

The defendant is ordered to pay to the presiding officer a sum 
of twelve guilders by way of fine and for the poor six guilders, 
since the aforesaid defendant declared that he had nothing to 
say to the dishonor of the plaintiff, as he did. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, the 
baker, defendant. 

The defendant declares that he has nothing further to say 
in regard to the charges heretofore brought against the person 
of the plaintiff; consequently, that he is forced to admit that he 
lied. Furthermore, pursuant to the directions of the Hon. Gen- 
eral, it is resolved to detain him and to send him a prisoner to 
the Manhatans, to answer, if he can the complaint of the fiscal 
there. 

On the demand made by President Dyckman, that Geer- 
truyt, the wife of Jochem, the baker, shall declare that she has 
nothing to say against Volckgen Jans but what is honorable 
and virtuous and in addition pay the expenses which the said 
Volckgen Jans may have incurred, with the costs, and that 
furthermore the said Geertruyt shall pay to the president, in his 
capacity of sheriff, a fine of fifty guilders, the aforesaid Geer- 
truyt, having appeared before the court and being asked whether 
she had anything to say against Volckgen Jans but what was 
honorable and virtuous, has declared No. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staas 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



26 Fort Orange and Beverwy^ck 

Ordinary Session, June 1 8, 1 652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

R: Jacopsz V: Jansz C: Theu van Westbroeck 

Jacob Luyersz, appearing before the court, requests a place 
for a house, one board in length, on the spot where his present 
house stands. After dehberation it is resolved to grant his 
request and that later a garden will be assigned to him for his 
convenience. 

[12] Geertruyt, the wife of Jochem, the baker, is ordered to 
deliver to the court this day week the fines which she has been 
condemned to pay. 

This day Adriaen Jansz from Leyden and Maria Rever- 
dinghs from Danswyck were united in marriage before the court 
here. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 

Ordinary Session, June 25, 1652 
Present : 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie C: T: Westbroeck 

R : Jacopsz V : Jansz 

After examination in court upon interrogatories of Geertruyt 
Jeronimus, wife of Jochem Becker, the baker, and Femmetgen 
Alberts, wife of Hendrick Jansz Westerkamp, regarding the 
abusive words spoken by Jacob Jansz Stol, commonly called 
Hap, against the respective magistrates, they have answered as 
may be seen in the said interrogatories, as was done likewise by 
the offender himself. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 27 

Ordinary Session, July 2, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie C: T: v: Westbroeck 

A: Staets 

President Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jacob Jansz Hap, 
defendant. 

It is resolved this first time to excuse the abusive words spoken 
by the defendant, but to enjoin and warn him to refrain from 
doing so in the future, on pain of being punished accordingly. 
Willem Bout, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, defendant. 
Defendant's first default. 

J. Dyckman 
Abraham Staas 
Jan Labatie 
cornelus tonisen 



[13] Ordinary Session, July 16, 1652 
Present : 

J : Dyckman J : Labatie A : Herpertsz 

R: Jacobsz V: Jansz C: Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Herman Bastiaensz, plaintiff against Thomas Sandertsen, 
defendant. 

The matter in dispute is put in the hands of Rem Jansz, smith, 
Jan Verbeeck, Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh and Pieter Hert- 
gers to conciliate the parties if possible and otherwise to report 
to the court. 

Upon the complaint of Jan Machielsz and Jacob Luyersz 
that the negress of Sander Leendertsen continues to reside here 
notwithstanding the sentence of the court, it is ordered that 
Officer Dyckman shall conduct the negress outside the limits 
[of the village] and whoever harbors her again inside shall for- 
feit the first time six guilders and the second time twelve guilders 
and the third time shall receive arbitrary correction. 



28 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

President Dyckman and Jan Verbeeck are appointed a com- 
mittee to procure a list of burghers who are willing to subscribe 
for the support of the church and the minister and to make a 
report of their findings. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Rut Jacobsz 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Tuesday, July 30, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz 

J: Labatie C: Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Jan van Aecken, plaintiff, against Jan Daret, defendant. 
Defendant's first default. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 

CoRNELUS ToNISEN 



[14] Tuesday, August 6, 1652 
Present : 



J: Dyckman J: Labatie V: J 



ansz 



Joost, the baker, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant. 

The defendant having submitted for his defense that Jan van 
Breemen is indebted to him in the sum of fifty guilders and 
that last year he assigned his claim against Jan van Breemen to 
the plaintiff, and seeing that payment has not yet taken place and 
is acknowledged to have been refused, the case is adjourned 
until the arrival here of Jan van Bremen. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 29 

Pleter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan Machielsz, defendant 

Defendant is condemned to pay the plaintiff the sum of one 
hundred and thirty-seven guilders and three stivers within the 
space of three months, according to his own confession, on pain 
of execution. 

Jacob Clomp, plaintiff, against Dirrick Jansz Croon, defend- 
ant, in regard to a dispute about ax handle planks. The parties 
are referred to Rem Jansz. smith, and Philip Pietersz Schuler, 
as referees, to reconcile parties if possible. 

Jan van Aecken, plaintiff, against Jan Daret, defendant. 

Defendant's second default. 

Geertruyt Jeronimus, plaintiff, against Styntgen Laurens, 
defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Dirrick van Nes, plaintiff, against Jan Verbeeck, defendant. 

Both parties' first default. 

The petition being read of Adriaen van Ilpendam, whereby 
he requests that he may be promoted to the post of secretary 
and that to this end a letter of recommendation from this court 
may be sent to the Hon. Director General and the Hon. Coun- 
cil, his request is granted. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 



[15] Extraordinary Session, Wednesday, August 7, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

R: Jacobsz V: Jansz C: Theu: v: Westb: 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Jan Clomp, defendant, for 84 
guilders due to Thomas Higge according to power of attorney 
from Jan van Bremen and attached in the hands of the Hon. 
Rut Jacobsz. 



30 Fori Orange and Beverrv])ck 

The court sets aside the attachment by Jacob Clomp of the 
aforesaid sum of 84 guilders in the hands of the Hon. Rut 
Jacopsz and orders him to pay the balance of the money to the 
plaintiff upon security, provided that the defendant may bring 
in his alleged claim against Thomas Higge on account of the 
sale of grain, which shall be his security for the recovery of the 
amount. Meanwhile, the defendant is ordered to pay imme- 
diately the costs of convening this court, on condition that if it 
is found later that his claims on account of the sale are justified, 
the court will order Thomas Higge promptly to reimburse the 
defendant for this present outlay, 

Dirrick Nes, plaintiff, against Jan Verbeeck, defendant, about 
a debt of sixty guilders for blue linen and children's stockings. 

The defendant declares that there is an overcharge of 6 
guilders and in addition that he has something to claim on 
account of the stockings. As the parties base their claims on 
the writing of Dirrick Claesz Boot, at present at the Manhatans, 
they are ordered to write to him. Boot, about it to advise 
them of the truth, with offer to confirm by oath what he has to 
say, upon the receipt of which the court will render judgment. 
Meanwhile Dirck Nes is ordered promptly to pay the costs of 
convening this court, upon condition that they will be refunded 
if it is hereafter found that his claims were well founded. 

The court messenger, Pieter Ryverdingh, is allowed fifteen 
stivers from each party for this extraordinary session. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Cornelus Tonisen 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 31 

Extraordinary Session, August 8, 1652 
Present: 
J : Dyckman J : Labatie A : Herpeftsz 

R: Jacopsz V: Jansz C: Theu: v: Westbroeck 

Dirrick Jansz Kroon, plaintiff, against Herman Bastiaensz, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff requests a receipt for some beavers taken with 
him to Holland for joint account, for which the defendant 
acknowledges that he has been paid. The defendant promises 
to grant the plaintiff a receipt and is hereby ordered to do so by 
this court in the amount of fl. 1277:15. Furthermore, the 
defendant is ordered to present and deliver to the court on Tues- 
day next the debit and credit account of the house, loss and 
profit, earnings and other matters outstanding between them 
both, when the plaintiff shall make payment and the defendant 
give a receipt. 

Jan Jansz, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz, defendant, 
for beavers in the hands of Jan Machielsz, tailor, which are 
attached by the defendant. The court sets aside the attachment 
issued against the said beavers and condemns the defendant to 
pay the costs of convening the court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rut Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
Cornelus Tonisen 



32 Fori Orange and Bevertv})ck 

[17] Extraordinary Session, August 20, 1652 

Present : 
J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

A: Staests V: Jansz C: Theu: v: Westb: 

R: Jacopsz 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Hendrick Jansz Westerkamp, 
defendant, on account of eight beavers which the defendant owes 
to Philip Gerary,^ acording to a note of the 16th of August 
of last year. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid eight 
beavers in specie to the plaintiff, by virtue of his power of attor- 
ney, within the space of ten days, on pain of execution. 

Evert Tesselaer, plaintiff, against Marten, the mason, defend- 
ant, on account of some merchandise bought by the defendant 
from the plaintiff, amounting to the sum of fl. 141:10, which 
was to be paid cash. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid sum of 
fl. 141 : 10 to the plaintiff within the space of two days, or to 
return the plaintiff's goods, on pain of execution. 

Dirrick Nes, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Cornelis Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, for 
[payment of] fl. 136 in beavers for wages earned. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid sum of 
fl. 136 to the plaintiff in beavers within the space of ten days, 
on pain of execution. 

Geertruyt Jeronimus, plaintiff, against Styntgen Laurens and 
Volckgen Jans, defendants. 

The court orders each of the defendants to pay the sum of 
twelve guilders to the president for fighting and as they charge 
the plaintiff with having called them names, which [18] they 
have not been able to prove, the parlies on both sides are fur- 



Philip Geraerdy, a tavernkeeper at New Amsterdam. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 33 

thermore ordered to hold their tongues and to leave each other 
in peace, as otherwise the court will take such measures as shall 
be found necessary. 

Dirrick Bensinck, corporal here in Fort Orange in the ser- 
vice of the West India Company, having last year resided at 
the Manhatans in New Amsterdam and at that time sold to 
the Reverend Domine Joannes Magapolensis a certain house 
and garden situated there, has appeared before this court and 
acknowledged that he has been satisfied and paid therefor in 
full, the first penny with the last. In order that they may be 
mutually at ease and to prevent all further demands, he requests 
that this may be entered in the court record and that an extract 
therefrom be given him, the more so as he, Bensingh, can neither 
read nor write; which request is hereby granted him. 

Philip Pietersz Scheuler is granted the lot heretofore given 
to Claes Croon, on the east side of Annetgen Bogardus, as it 
is assumed that he, Kroon, will not build upon it. 

Jan van Aecken, plaintiff, against Jan Daret, defendant, for 
the recovery of fl. 1 50, loaned to him last year. 

The defendant's third default. He is therefore ordered to 
pay the plaintiff the aforesaid fl. 1 50 within the space of four 
days and to appear and present himself here before the court 
a week from today to purge himself of the escape from arrest 
and in case of refusal he shall immediately betake himself out- 
side of this jurisdiction and remain there, on pain of appre- 
hension. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Abraham Staes 

Rut Jacobsz 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 



34 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

[ 1 9] Ordinary Session, August 26, 1 652 

Present: 

J : Dyckman A : Herpertsz C : Theunisz 

R: Jacopsz J: Labatie A: Staats 

V: Jansz 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, plaintiff, against Hendrick Jansz 
Westerkamp, defendant, for the sum of fl. 166, to be paid in 
beavers. 

The defendant is ordered to pay the aforesaid sum of fl. 166 
in merchantable beavers to the plaintiff on the first of June 1 653 
next, on pain of peremptory execution. 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, plaintiff, against Jan Daret, 
defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, 
defendant, for the sum of fl. 64, to be paid in beavers. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid sum of 
fl. 64 in beavers to the plaintiff within the space of 24 hours, 
but to deduct certain fl. 33:7, which the plaintiff owes the 
defendant. 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, plaintiff, against Lambert van 
Valckenburgh, defendant, for the sum of fl. 535 in beavers. 

The court orders the defendant to pay to the plaintiff accord- 
ing to his promise made here, the half of the aforesaid sum of 
fl. 535 provisionally at the Manhatans in New Amsterdam 
before the departure of the ships lying ready to sail for patria 
and the balance by the middle of June of next year and in case 
of nonpayment execution in full is ordered. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staes 
Rut Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 35 

[20] Ordinary Session, September 3, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: van Westbroeck 

R: Jacopsz A: Herpertsz 

Cornelis Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, 
in regard to some claims. 

The case is adjourned until the next session. 

Arent Cornelisz Vogel being summoned and having appeared 
before the court is ordered and directed to present this day 
week his papers and the proofs which he may have or can 
secure, when judgment will be rendered. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 

Extraordinary Session, September 4, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz A: Herpertsz 

R: Jacobsz 

Willem Albertsz from Monickendam, plaintiff, against Jacob 
Clomp, defendant, about 1 00 boards of the Hon. Rut Jacopsz 
taken from plaintiff and put on board. 

The court orders the defendant to return the one hundred 
boards loaded into his yacht 't Seepaert and to deliver them 
undamaged and free of charge on land, as he put them on 
board contrary to orders, and therefore to pay and turn over 
to Willem Albertsz the costs of the court. Furthermore, parties 
are at the first opportunity to settle with each other in regard 
to the accounts which they may heretofore have had together. 

This day, Willem Albertsz has sworn before the court that 
he had given no orders to Jacob Clomp to put the aforesaid 



36 Fori Orange and Beverjv^cl^ 

boards on board. The resolution being taken up again, it is 
provisionally decided to let the above w^ritten judgment take 
effect. 

[21] There was read a certain writing and petition sent to 
this court by Mr de Hooges, secretary and commissioner of the 
colony of Rensselaerswyck, whereby he requests [relief] from 
annoyance caused him by the person of Willem Albertsz in 
demanding payment for an Edam cheese and six cans of wine, 
the first of which was retained as compensation for writing and 
the second were paid for by Joost, the baker. 

After deliberation, it is resolved and decided to order Willem 
Albertsz to leave the aforesaid Mr de Hooges hereafter in 
peace and unmolested, on pain of punishment to be determined 
later. Meanwhile, he is to pay at once six guilders to the poor 
on account of the offensive conduct in the matter toward the 
person of the aforesaid Mr de Hooges. 

As regards the fine of Willem Albertsz for fighting, the 
president is requested to submit his complaint and conclusion in 
writing on the next court day. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rut Jacobsz 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Extraordinary Session, September 6, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz 

R: Jacopsz A: Herpertsz 

Jan Machielsz, tailor, plaintiff, against Willem AlT^ertsz, 
defendant, charging that the defendant accused the plaintiff of 
having stolen a cheese. 

The court having examined the witnesses called and the 
parties and found that the plaintiff's charges are not true, they 
first condemn the plaintiff to pay the costs of the suit and fur- 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 37 

thermore order the parties on both sides to keep still and to 
behave themselves on pain of arbitrary correction. 

The court having further examined the declarations made the 
day before yesterday by Geertruyt Jeronimus and Marritgen 
Jans regarding the drawing of the knife by Willem Albertsz 
from Monickendam, [221 sentence is passed in accordance with 
the complaint and conclusion, as may be seen from the 
documents. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 
VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Present: 
J : Dyckman V : Jansz C : Theuniszz v : Westbroeck 

R: Jacopsz A: Herpertsz 

Interrogatories conducted by this court concerning the crime 
committed by Frans Gabrielsz from Delft against the daughter 
of Goosen Gerretsz, as may be seen from the contents thereof. 
Upon consideration of the notice concerning the taking away 
of the canoes from the shore, it is resolved to post the same as 
drafted. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rut Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

Extraordinary Session, September 20, 1652 
Present: 
J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: Theunisz v: Westbroeck 

R: Jacopsz A: Herpertsz 

In the matter of Frans Gabrielsz from Delft, at present a 
prisoner pursuant to the interrogatories conducted last Tuesday 
in regard to the crime committed by him, has accordingly con- 



38 Fort Orange and Beveriv^cl^ 

fessed as showTi in the margin [of said interrogatories], where- 
upon it is resolved to send the same to the Hon. General in 
order to learn his honor's very wise opinion and order thereon. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 
VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 



[23] Ordinary Session, October 8, 1652 

Present: 
J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz V: Jansz 

R: Jacobsz C: Theunisz v: Westbroeck 

Merten, the mason, an inhabitant of Beverwyck, appears and 
acknowledges that he is indebted to Jan Jansz from Gotten- 
burgh in the sum of fifty-eight beavers, which [he promises] 
to pay to [him] or his attorney next year before the departure 
of the ships, for which he hereby binds his house and goods 
according to the preference [of the payee]. 

Brecht Jacop's daughter, plaintiff, against Abram Pietersz 
Vosburgh, defendant, for 4|/2 beavers for goods supplied for 
his maintenance. 

The defendant is ordered to pay the plaintiff within eight 
days three beavers in specie and twelve guilders in good, strung 
seawant. 

Joannes Dyckman 
RuTGER Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

CoRNELUS TONISEN 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 39 

Extraordinary Session, October 13, 1652 



Present: 



J : Dyckman A : Herpertsz C : T : v : Westbroeck 
R : Jacopsz 

-The court having read and examined a certain authorization 
granted by the Hon. Director General and Council of New 
Netherland on the 28th of September last, concerning the per- 
son of Frans Gabrielsz from Delft, at present a prisoner here 
on account of a crime committed by him, and also the letter 
sent to the presiding officer and the advice contained therein, 
it is unanimously resolved to have the delinquent appear before 
this court and once more to [24] read to him his confession 
made heretofore upon interrogatories. Having come down and 
appeared before us, he has confessed as before and made the 
same statement that upon his confession was entered in the 
margin, with some additions. Whereupon, after deliberation, the 
president is requested to have the whipping post and its appurte- 
nances made ready for tomorrow to punish the delinquent as an 
example to others. 

On motion of the president made ex officio about the crime 
committed by Arent Cornelisz Vogel, who was imprisoned but 
released on bail, to have him provisionally also further examined 
tomorrow, his request is granted. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 
VOLCKART JaNSZ 

cornelus tonisen 
Andries Herberts 



40 Fort Orange and Beverxv\)ck 

Extraordinary Session, October 14, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: Theunisz v: Westbroeck 

R: Jacobsz A: Herpertsz 

Having seen the written bill of complaint and demand pre- 
sented by the president against the delinquent, Frans Gabrielsz 
from Delft and duly weighed everything, we have concluded to 
condemn him, as we do hereby, as set forth at large in the record 
of the sentence, the execution of which is ordered to follow. 

[The court] having examined and carefully considered the 
written complaint and demand presented by the president in his 
official capacity against the delinquent, Arent [25] Cornelisz 
Vogel, at present held in custody on account of the crimes com- 
mitted by him, and also read the evidence against him, it was 
resolved to summon the witnesses to confirm their testimony by 
oath. Which being done, it was in accordance with legal pro- 
cedure decided to have him brought to the place of justice, to 
be exposed to public [scorn]. 

However, before the sentence was read to him, the delinquent 
was informed that he was free to appeal, on condition of giving 
bail for the carrying out of the sentence. Whereupon, at the 
delinquent's request, two bailsmen appeared, to wit, Willem 
Fredrixsz and Marten Hendrixsz, who after recital of the crimes 
committed by the delinquent and the sentence that had been 
imposed upon him, begged to be excused from becoming bail. 
As the delinquent was unable to get any other persons to go bail 
for him, the sentence was left to take its course in accordance 
with its terms and as is to be seen more fully from the text, which 
to that end will be recorded in the Sentence Book. 

Joannes Dyckman 
RuTGER Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 
cornelus tonisen 
Andries Herberts 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 41 

Ordinary Session, October 22, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: v: Westbroeck 

R: Jacopsz 

Volckert Jansz, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, 
for fifty guilders due by the defendant according to a note 
assigned in favor of Joost Theunisz, baker, at the Manhatans. 

The court orders the defendant [26] to pay the plaintiff 
the aforesaid sum of fifty guilders, the defendant to look to Jan 
van Bremen for the recovery of the sum and to make payment 
within the space of four weeks. 

A petition was read of Jan Thomasz and Laurens Jansz, 
burghers of Beverswyck, setting forth that shots are frequently 
fired at night by the Christians themselves, notwithstanding the 
ordinances against it, and requesting for the sake of preventing 
many accidents in the future that a warning may be issued by 
this court. 

Whereupon, after deliberation, it is resolved to note that 
proper provision in the matter will be made by the court for the 
future, and to request the president to make inquiries as to the 
persons who are guilty. 

Machiel, the lademal^er,^ appearing in court, requests to have 
a lot next to the lot[s] of Gerret, the cooper, and Annetgen 
Bogardus, which request is granted, notwithstanding said lot has 
heretofore been granted to Klaes Kroon, at the Manhatans, the 
president undertaking to defend tKe title against the claims of 
the said Croon. 

The president having announced that he understood and was 
informed that those of the colony,^ directly contrary to our 



* The usual meaning of the word laJemaker is that of a man who makes 
geTi^eerladen, or gunstocks, i. e. a gunstock maker. Occasionally, how- 
ever, the word occurs in the sense of a man who makes chests of drawers, 
in other words, a cabinet maker. 

^ The authorities of the colony of Rensselaerswyck. 



42 Fori Orange and Beveriv^cti 

instructions, intended to make improvements to their building,* 
it is resolved to have the court messenger, Pieter Ryverdingh, 
serve our order on them in writing, as may be read therein at 
length. 

[27] Extraordinary Session, October 28, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: T: van Westbroeck 

R: Jacobsz A: Herpertsz 

The court having examined the written request made of the 
court of the colony, and also the protest and prohibition to repair 
the building erected in spite of our protest which they thus far 
occupy and reside in by sufferance, and being informed that they 
intend to proceed with the repairs, it is, after mature deliberation, 
in view of the friendly request, protest and prohibition that have 
been made and pending the reciept of an answer to the letter 
written by the president to the Hon. General, resolved to leave 
the matter for the present in statu quo, until further order. 

Whereas the president and the court messenger have informed 
the court that the Hon. Jan Labatie, appointed magistrate of 
this court, is going to live in the colony on the farm of Cornelis 
Theunesz van Breuckelen and therefore resigns from the office 
of magistrate, it is resolved to proceed anew to the nomination 
and election of an extraordinary magistrate. The Hon. Pieter 
Hertgers was elected by a plurality of votes and after the afore- 
said Hon. Jan Labatie is duly released from his oath he will be 
installed in the office of extraordinary magistrate of this court 
and take the oath prescribed by our instructions. 

Joannes Dyckman 
RuTGER Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 

^ Logewent. 



Court Minutes. 1652-1656 43 

[28] Ordinary Session, November 5, 1652 
Present : 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz C: Theu: v: Westbroeck 

Evert Noldingh, plaintiff, against Jan van Breemen, defend- 
ant, for wages earned according to the contract, amounting to 
fl. 56:16. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid sum 
of fifty-six guilders, sixteen stivers, within the space of fourteen 
days, on pain of execution. 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant, 
for fifty guilders which he owes plaintiff. 

The court having examined the circumstances of the case, 
order the defendant within fourteen days to present his evidence, 
showing what damage he suffered as to the plowshare and the 
gun, in order to pronounce and render judgment in accordance 
with the decision of the 22d of the preceding month. 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, plaintiff, against Jan van 
Bremen, defendant, for fl.63:8:-, which he owes plaintiff for 
merchandise received according to the account submitted. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid sum 
of fl.63 :8:— , within the space of six weeks, on pain of execution. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 

[29] Extraordinary Session, November 16, 1652 

Present : 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz C: Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz 
from Monickendam, defendant, on account of the defendant's 
offensive conduct toward the person of Mr de Hooges, secretary 
of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, and his wife, according to 
the deposition and the testimony of Joost Theunisz, the baker. 



44 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

and the extract from a letter of the Rev. Domine Megapolensis. 
All of which papers, together with the sentence in the case passed 
by this court on the 4th of September last, [having been exam- 
ined], it is decided, in view of the fact that there is no quorum 
present on the bench, to adjourn the case until the return of the 
magistrates who are absent, when final decision and sentence will 
be pronounced. 

Meanwhile, the defendant is placed under arrest [with 
order] not to depart before further decision in the matter is 
made, unless released on bail. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Ordinary Session, December 3, 1652 
Present: 
Omnes 

Received, a letter from the Hon. General Petrus Stuyvesant, 
dated the 26th of November 1652, and with it two ordinances, 
one of which, prohibiting the use of grain for brewing, is 
unanimously approved by all the magistrates for publication and 
for being posted. As to the other, regarding the tapsters' excise, 
the Hon. Rutger Jacopsz and Volckert Jansz declare them- 
selves personally in favor of further communication [with the 
Director General], as [30] they have objections to its being 
published and posted. 

Evert Nolden, tailor, requests to have a lot between the road 
near Annetgen Bogardus and Machiel, the lademaker.^ The 
Hon. Volckert Jansz and Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck 
are appointed a committee to lay out and convey the said lot and 
road. 



" tusschen den wegh van omtrent annetgen Bogardus ende Machiel de 
lademaffcr; literally, " between the road, from about Annetgen Bogardus 
and Machiel, the lademaker." 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 45 

Pieter Adriaensz, commonly called GemackelijcJi, a resident 
of the fort, is upon the verbal report of Jacob Jansz Hap pro- 
visionally given permission to tap, on condition that in tapping 
and entertaining company he shall act quietly, in accordance 
with the provisions of the ordinance issued for that purpose. 

Merten, the mason, is at his request granted the lot behind 
his place, on condition that if within six weeks he does not begin 
to build and gradually proceed with the work until it is finished, 
he shall be deprived thereof. 

Hendrick Cassersz from Oldenborgh requesting a lot for a 
plantation near Wouter Aertsz van Petten, wheelwright, and a 
small hop yard, he is granted the same on condition that if he 
does not commence his plantation in the spring, he shall be 
deprived thereof, and that he must leave alone the lot of the 
aforesaid Wouter Aertsz and the necessary road or roads there- 
abouts. 

Joannes Dyckman 
^Abram Stars 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 

[31] Extraordinary Session, December 6, 1652 

The lot granted heretofore to Philip Pietersz Scheuler, to 
the east, say to the west, of Marten, the mason, is approved 
and definitely entered as granted to him. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staes 

RuTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 
Volckart Jansz 
Andries Herberts 

CoRNELUS ToNISEN 



46 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

Extraordinary Session, December 28, 1652 

Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz C: Theu: v: Westbroeck 

A: Staets A: Herpertsz J: Labatie 
R: Jacopsz 

On the date hereof. Evert Brantsen from Amersfoort, a 
soldier, is released by Commissary Dyckmans from his oath to 
the company taken as a soldier and engaged by this court as 
under-sheriff provisionally until next May, at wages of fl. 18 
a month and fl. 100 for board, whereupon he has taken the oath 
of fidelity as under-sheriff. 

Herman Bastiaensen, an inhabitant of Beverwyck, under 
arrest for misdemeanors committed by him regarding which evi- 
dence has been gathered, being arraigned before this court, has 
made confession and denial as set forth at length in the docu- 
ments thereof. Therefore, the commissary is requested, if pos- 
sible, to secure further evidence to be presented at the next ses- 
sion of the court, which he has undertaken to do. At the request 
[of the delinquent] [32] to be released on bail, this is for 
certain reasons granted upon severe conditions specified in the 
bail bond, whereupon Willem Fredrixsz, commonly called Bout, 
an inhabitant of Beverwyck, has appeared and after the bail 
bond was read to him, signed the bond as it stood before this 
court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staes 
Rut Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 47 

Ordinary Session, January 7, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman R: Jacopsz V: Jansz 

A: Staets J: Labatie 

The commissary having submitted and complained to this 
court that in spite of the contract made with Herman Bastiaensen, 
carpenter, the Hon. Company's house is not being finished, not- 
withstanding the protest, friendly request and threats made, so 
that the company's house remains unfinished, to the great loss, 
prejudice and damage, not only of the company, but also of 
him, the commissary, and even of this court, it is after mature 
deliberation resolved and decided to order the aforesaid Herman 
Bastiaensz, as this court does hereby, to finish the work on the 
Hon. Company's house without any delay and not to let any 
good and suitable weather go by without working, on pain of 
having the aforesaid work executed and carried to completion 
by others [33] at the expense of the said Herman Bastiaensen, 
who is hereby ordered promptly to regulate himself accordingly. 
An extract herefrom shall be sent to him by the court messenger 
to regulate himself accordingly. 

Jochem Becker, plaintiff, against Jan van Hoesem, defendant, 
for having hired of Willem Juriaensen the house standing on the 
plaintiff's lot, which he was prohibited from occupying. 

Upon examination of the resolution concerning the lot passed 
by this court on the 30th of April last, it is decided that as long 
as Willem Juriaensz lives he shall be free to lease his aforesaid 
dwellinghouse to whomsoever he pleases. 

Secondly, Jochem Becker, plaintiff, has exhibited a certain 
written contract made with Jan van Hoesem and Willem 
Juriaensen concerning the aforesaid lot, his furniture and baker's 
trade, which being read, Jan van Hoesem has requested a copy 
of the aforesaid contract, which request is granted on condition 
that Jan van Hoesem shall be bound to file his answer before 
the next session of the court. 



48 Fori Orange and Beverrvy^ck 

Jan Claesz Brant, appearing before the court, requests a lot 
in Beverwyck, across the first kill, for the purpose of building 
thereon. After deliberation it is resolved and decided to 
request and appoint the Hon. Rutger Jacopsz and Volckert 
Jansz to lay out for him a lot near Willem Hap on the line. 

The Hon. Abraham Staets having requested that the 
[description] [34] of the lot heretofore granted to him might 
be entered here, this is granted and it is situated as follows: 
Adjoining on the east side Rut Jacopsz, between [whose lot 
and his] there is a path five feet wide, reaching across the first 
kill; on the west side the hill, [length] six rods, two feet; south- 
wards eight rods, on the north side the common wood road, 
twenty-five rods; again southward to the first kill, eight rods, 
and further along the boundary line of the said kill to the afore- 
said five foot path. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staes 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 
VoLCKART Jansz 

Ordinary Session, Tuesday, January 14, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

A: Staets V: Jansz C: Th: v: Westbroeck 

R: Jacobsz 

Upon the request of the Hon. Jan Labatie for permission to 
take possession for his own use of the garden heretofore given 
to Jan Martensz, behind this fort, marked W 7, said permission 
is hereby granted him on condition that he obtain a patent 
from the Hon. General. 

The president having stated that Jochem, the baker, accord- 
ing to the judgment of the court dated the 26th of August,'" 

" Not entered in the minutes. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 49 

owes him fl.50 on account of a dispute and that these have 
not yet been paid, the court decides that he must pay within 
fourteen days on pain of execution, which the officer is hereby 
authorized to levy. 

[35] Jochem Becker, plaintiff, against Jan van Hoesem, 
defendant. 

The defendant having appeared, requests that a member of 
this court proceed in his name against the plaintiff in the matter 
of the lot in issue between Jan van Hoesem and Willem Juria- 
ensz, for which Jan van Hoesem received the patent. 

The Hon. Rutger Jacopsz is unanimously chosen for this pur- 
pose, the present entry taking the place of a power of attorney. 

Plaintiff says that the lot belongs to Willem Juriaensz. 

Rutger Jacopsz, appearing for the defendant, demands 
security for the judgment. 

Parties are ordered to give security for the judgment and to 
produce their evidence on the next court day when judgment 
will be pronounced. 

Jochem Becker is notified and ordered to remove his lumber 
lying in the public road within twenty-four hours, on pain of 
forfeiting fifty guilders, of twice the amount on second notice, 
and of arbitrary correction on third notice. 

On the side of Jan van Hoesem, Andries Herpertsz and 
Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck have become sureties for 
the judgment at the termination of the suit. 

[36] This day, Arent Andriesz has taken the oath of burgher 
of Beverwyck before this court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staas 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andrfes Herberts 



30 Fort Orange and BeverW})cJ( 

Ordinary Session, January 22, 1652 
Present: 

J: Dyckman R: Jacobsz V: Jansz 

A: Staets J: Labatie 

Volckert Jansz, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, 
for payment of fl.50 for Joost Theunisz, the baker. 

The court having taken into consideration the judgment ren- 
dered by it, orders by virtue thereof prompt payment or execu- 
tion. 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant, 
for the recovery of fifty guilders according the above v^ritten 
judgment given against the defendant. 

The court order defendant to pay plaintiff within twenty-four 
hours, on pain of execution. 

Barent Cramer, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant, 
for the sum of fl.56:16, according to the judgment heretofore 
rendered. 

Defendant says that he does not want to fulfil the contract 
because he was drunk when he signed it. 

The court orders that defendant shall remain under arrest 
and imprisoned for debt until he has paid the aforesaid sum to 
the plaintiff, or gives security to the satisfaction of the plaintiff. 

J. Dyckman 

Abram Staas 
Jan Labatie 
RuTGER Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 51 

[37] There was read a petition from Goosen Gerritsz, 
burgher and inhabitant of Beverwyck, praying for a building 
lot, situated close to the third kill, on this side, with the thicket 
or swamp lying close to it. Resolved to note in the margin that 
the Hon. court is favorably disposed to accommodate the peti- 
tioner with a lot, but as to the other [ground] , as it is considered 
best to keep this for common use, the request can not be granted. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staas 
Jan Labatie 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 
VOLCKART JaNSZ 



Ordinary Session, Tuesday, January 28, 1653 

Present : 

J: Dyckman J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

R: Jacopsz V: Jansz C: Theu: v: Westb: 

Jochem Keteluyn having requested permission to have a lot 
next to Jan Claes Brant, on the north side, the same is granted 
and the Hon. Rutger Jacopsz and Volckert Jansz are requested 
to indicate the bounds of the lot, in order that he may obtain 
his ground brief in connection with his permit to build. 

Commissary Dyckmans, plaintiff, against Pieter Adriaensen, 
innkeeper, defendant, on account of having tapped after com- 
mencement of divine service. 

Defendant acknowledges that on the 19th of this month he 
was fined by the under-sheriff and that he used abusive language 
when fined. 

The court orders him to pay the officer the sum of six guilders 
as a fine and if he is hereafter caught again, the double amount. 

[38] A petition was read of Willem Fredrixsz, praying for 
permission to erect a horse mill in Beverwyck and to have the 
exclusive right to operate it for some time. Resolved to note 
in the margin that>'he petitioner must first indicate to this court 



52 Fort Orange and Bevenv})ck 

where he intends to put this mill and that then the matter will 
be taken under further consideration. 

Jacob Hap and Jan de Visscher being called, the second 
default is taken against them. 

Rutger Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, defendant. 

Plaintiff wants to know, first, whether the defendant still 
claims that the lot of Jan van Hoesem according to the ground 
brief belongs to Willem Juriaensz, and what proof he has 
thereof? 

Secondly, plaintiff demands that the defendant, pursuant to 
the order of the court, give security for the judgment. 

The defendant says that before the coming of the Hon. 
General to Beverwyck, no one had any ground of his own. The 
defendant refuses to give security or to bind himself for some 
one else and prefers to discontinue the suit. 

The court orders the parties to live henceforth in peace and 
not to molest one another about the lot, on pain of being dealt 
with by this court as it may see fit; but with this provision, that 
the Hon. Magistrates Abraham Staets and Volckert Jansz are 
appointed to show the old captain ^^ a place on the aforesaid 
lot where he may pile up his fire-wood, or to indicate to him 
how far he may use the lot, in order that the aforesaid Jan van 
Hoesem may properly fence off [39] his lot to suit his con- 
venience. 

On the complaint of Jochem Becker that Jan van Hoesem 
or his family were throwing hot ashes or embers against his clab- 
boards, which he fears may some day cause a fire to the great 
detriment of himself and his neighbors, it is resolved to have the 
court messenger, Pieter Ryverdingh, enjoin the said van Hoesem 
in the name of this court from doing so in the future. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rutger Jacobsz 
VoLCKART Jansz 
Jan Labatie 
cornelus tonisen 
Andries Herberts 



^^ Willem Juriaensz, 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 53 

Ordinary Session, February 11,1 653 
Present: 

J : Dyckman Jan Labatie A : Herpertsz 

A: Staets V: Jansz 

Goosen Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz. 
Both parties in default. 

Herman Bastiaensz against Cornelis Hendrixsz, defendant. 
First default of both parties. 

Jacob Jansz Schermerhooren, plaintiff, against Adriaen Jansz 
from Leyden, about a certain lot situated next to the lot of the 
plaintiff, near the hill, marked No. 4, drawn by him last year, 
but afterwards promised to the plaintiff, or to Lysbet Cornelis, 
wife of Gisbert Cornelisz, whereof sufficient evidence has been 
shown to this court. * 

The Hon. Magistrate Jan Labatie, [40] appearing for the 
defendant to answer the plaintiff's demand, says that the 
defendant had no power to give away the lot, for if he did 
not wish to take possession of it, it reverted to this court. 

The court having heard both sides, assign the lot from now 
on to Lysbet Cornelis, on condition that she must secure a 
ground brief therefor and that the defendant may take posses- 
sion of the lot drawn by her on the conditions agreed to. 

Goosen Gerritsen, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, 
defendant, for beer furnished and money due, amounting to 
fl.86:- 

Defendant admits the debt. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid sum 
of fl.86:- or thereabouts, within the space of six weeks, on pain 
of execution. 

Willem Fredrixsz having requested on January 28, last past, 
permission to erect a horse mill for the convenience of the 
burghers, it is after deliberation resolved to grant him permission 
to do so on his own lot, on condition that he keep within the street 
line; but as to his request for exclusive privilege, he is referred 



54 Fort Orange and Beverrv\)ck 

to the Hon. General and Council of the province at the Man- 
hatans. 

Received and read a letter from the Hon. General, dated the 
first of this month, giving notice of and inclosing an ordinance 
prohibiting the baking and sale to the Indians [41] of white 
bread and cake and the malting of hard grain, w^hereupon it is 
resolved to cause the same to be published. 

On receipt of a letter from the Hon. General about the non- 
imposition of the tapsters' excise on beer and wines for a time, 
it is upon reconsideration of the matter resolved to give public 
notice that innkeepers shall hereafter not be allowed to ask 
more than 8 stivers for a mutsje of brandy and nine stivers for 
a can of beer, on pain of forfeiting for the first violation one 
hundred guilders, the second time twice as much and of receiving 
arbitrary punishment the third time. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staes 
Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Cornelus Tonisen 

Ordinary Session, Tuesday, February 18, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman V: Jansz A: Herperts 

A: Staets J: Labatie C: Theu: v: Westb: 

R : Jacopsz 

Rut Arentsz. plaintiff, against Aert Jacopsz, defendant. 
Parties' first default. 

Herman Bastiaensz, plaintiff, against Dirrick Jansz, defend- 
ant, about some disputed accounts outstanding between them. 

The arguments on both sides having been heard by the court, 
it is decided that the plaintiff shall on demand promptly pay 
to the defendant what he is found to have received more than 
his share of the common account. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 55 

[42] [Plaintiff] also [demands] the sum of fl.21 1 :-, for 
some gunstocks ^" made together. At the request of the defend- 
ant the case is put over to the next court day. 

Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Marten, the brewer, defendant, 
for carpenter's wages, moneys advanced and goods. 

Defendant admits the debt. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff in accordance 
with the terms of the contract made together, within eight weeks, 
on pain of execution. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, 
defendant, for baking cake and white bread contrary to the 
ordinance. 

Defendant says that he has not baked since the publication 
of the ordinance. 

Jan van Hoesem, or Rut Jacobsz, as attorney, plaintiff, 
against Jochem Becker, defendant, about the accounts of the 
expenses incurred by the parties during the suit about the lot 
of Jan van Hoesem, claimed by the old captain, Willem Juri- 
aensen. The court orders parties on both sides to pay the costs 
of the suit, and in case they are not satisfied with the judgment 
pronounced on the 28th of the preceding month and find them- 
selves aggrieved by it, they are given the right to appeal to the 
Hon. General and Council of New Netherland. The court 
having heard the report made on the aforesaid date by the Hon. 
Abraham Staets and Volckert Jansz, the same is approved as 
to its provision that the old captain, Willem Juriaensen, may 
possess the aforesaid lot as long as he lives. 

[43] Jan Smit, plaintiff, against Jan Gauw, defendant, for 
wounds inflicted on plaintiff by defendant. Plaintiff claims 
damages for pain and injury suffered and also payment of the 
surgeon's fees. 

Defendant states that it was plaintiff's fault and that he 
pushed him and claims damages for lost time. 

The court orders parties on both sides to present their evidence 
on the next court day. 

*^ Laaden. 



56 Fort Orange and Beverivytk 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jacob Flodder, 
defendant, for fighting last Sunday with a hoe against Ellert, 
at the house of Pieter Bronck. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Elbert Gerbertsz, 
defendant, for drawing his knife against Jacob last Sunday at 
the house of Pieter Bronck. 

Defendant denies at first. 

Pieter Bronck being questioned on oath says. Yes. Like- 
wise the under-sheriff. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff at once a fine 
of twenty-five guilders and a like sum of twenty-five guilders 
to the poor, with the proviso that he shall remain in custody until 
the aforesaid payments are made. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Rut Adriaensz, 
tailor, defendant, and Lysbet Rosekrans, on account of carnal 
conversation, committed according to mutual [44] confession 
on the seventh of this month at the house of the said Rut 
Arentsz. 

Rut Arents declares that she, the said Lysbet Rosekrans, is 
and will remain a whore and that he does not want to marry 
her. 

The aforesaid Rut Arentsz and Lysbet Rosekrans are ordered 
to appear on the next court day to hear the sentence of the court. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Upon the request of the Hon. Magistrate Jan Labatie for 
permission to build on the corner of the first kill and to have 
the lot between the kill and the lot provisionally inclosed by 
Sander Leendertsen, said request is granted, the lot to be 
properly surveyed and the lines indicated to him. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staas 
Rut Jacobsz 
Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
cornelus tonisen 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 57 

Ordinary Session, Tuesday, March 4, 1653 

Present: 

J: Dyckman R: Jacobsz V: Jansz 

A: Staets J: Labatie A: Herpertsz 

Jan Smit, plaintifF, against Jan Gauw, defendant, for wounds 
inflicted by defendant on plaintiff's hand. 

The court having heard the arguments on both sides and con- 
sidered what took place at the last session, decides and orders, 
as it does hereby, that defendant shall pay plaintiff immediately 
the surgeon's fees, without the plaintiff having anything to claim 
on account of permanent injuries. 

[45] The written complaint and demand being read of the 
president, ex officio, against Herman Bastiaensz, for cutting 
down the street line post, and the court having considered the 
serious consequences which in future might result therefrom, but 
being in hopes that he will behavj better in the future, he is 
ordered by this court to pay the commissary, in his capacity as 
prosecuting officer, a fine of fifty guilders, and in addition to 
make promise of better behavior. 

Dirrick Jansz Kroon, plaintiff, against Herman Bastiaensz, 
defendant, on account of a dispute about former accounts. 

First, as to the collecting of the money, they are referred to 
the judgment heretofore rendered. 

Secondly, as to the gunstock making, they are referred to 
Ariaen Jansz from Leyden and Master Ariaen van Ilpendam, 
arbitrators and referees, in order to come to an agreement if 
they can, of which a report is to be made to this court. 

Giertgen Nannix, being cited before the court, declares at 
the request of Commissary Dyckman that Rut Arentsz before 
going home [promised that he would] legally marry her and 
that to that end he would give her a ring as a pledge of marriage 
before sleeping with her. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Elbert Gerbertsz and 
Jacob, the carpenter, defendants, for having wounded each other 
in the neck and caused the blood to flow. 



58 Fort Orange and Beverw^cti 

The parties are ordered to present their evidence at the next 
session of the court. 

Pieter Bronck has become bail for the appearance of Elbert 
Gerbertsz on the next court day. 

[46] A petition was read from the respective bakers in 
Beverwyck, requesting mitigation of the ordinance concerning 
the baking of white bread, pretzel and cookies to be sold to the 
Indians. Resolved to refer the petitioners to the ordinance. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Abram Staas 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Labatie 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 



Ordinary Session, Tuesday, March 18, 1653 

Present: 

J: Dyckman R: Jacobsz V: Jansz 

Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, 
defendant. 

Parties' first default. 

Jan de Visser, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Dirrick Bensingh, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, 
defendant. 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Abraham Pietersz 
Vosburgh, defendant, for fl. 16, which he must pay to Arent 
Schapenbout and which the commissary desires shall be paid 
to him on account of a fine. 

Resolved, that the same shall for the present remain attached; 
also the money which is due to him from Merten, the brewer, 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 59 

wherefore the court messenger is ordered to attach the one and 
the other anew until such time as this court shall make a further 
decision in the matter. 

[47] Pieter Ryverdingh, plaintiff, against Jacob Luyersz and 
Jan Machielsz, defendants, for messenger fees amounting to 
fl.l8:15:- 

Defendants say that Sander Leendertsen must pay the same 
according to the judgment previously rendered by this court. 

Ordered that the plaintiff may cite the parties or Sander 
Leendertsen to appear on the next court day, 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Jacob Hap, defendant, on 
account of fighting and a blow with the fist. 

Plaintiff's first default. 

A petition having been read from the respective bakers resid- 
ing in Beverwyck, whereby they request permission to sell some 
white bread for the Indians, especially cake, for reasons more 
fully set forth in the petition, it is decided that as the president 
and some of the members of this court are to leave for the Man- 
hatans, they may discuss the matter with the Hon. General, the 
report whereof shall be awaited. Until such time the petitioners 
must have patience and shall not be allowed to sell either stuff 
to the Indians. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 
VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Extraordinary Session, Saturday, April 5, 1653 

Present: 

The Hon. Fiscal Thienhoven J: Dyckman A: Staets 

C : Theunisz van Westbroeck Paulus Leendertsz J : Labatie 

Maximiliaen van Geel A: Herpertsz V: Jansz 

The honorable fiscal and the delegates from the city of New 
Amsterdam have in the presence of the commissaries of this 
inferior court of justice verbally and in writing set forth and 



60 Fort Orange and Bevertv^cJi 

explained the reasons which have induced the Hon. Director 
General and Council of New Netherland to send the aforesaid 
delegates hither, said reasons being in the main twofold, namely : 

First, that the ordinances heretofore issued concerning the 
malting and using of hard grain for brewing purposes have been 
duly published by this court and observed [48] as far as 
practicable, in connection with which the honorable delegates 
in the name of the Hon. Director General and Council of New 
Netherland thank the commissary and members of this court 
for the timely warning in regard to the consumption [of beer] 
as aforesaid, but that the court of the colony of Rensselaerswyck 
has thus far failed to put into execution the orders regarding the 
publication, posting and observance of the aforesaid well-meant 
and necessary ordinances. For this reason the honorable fiscal, 
together with the Hon. Paulus Leendertsen and Maximiliaen 
van Geel, were sent in order that they, with Commissary Dyck- 
man and two members of this court, whereto after deliberation 
were chosen Abraham Staets and Jan Labatie, might request 
them, namely those of the court of Rensselaerswyck aforesaid, 
once more and finally, to publish and post the same. For which 
purpose the court messenger, Pieter Reverdingh, was sent to the 
director of the colony, Jan Baptista van Rensselaer, to inquire 
when it would be convenient for his honor to have their honors 
call upon him, whereupon the court messenger reported that he 
received for answer that his honor would let them know in the 
afternoon. 

Secondly, the honorable fiscal and the delegates aforesaid 
have exhibited an order for a day of fasting and prayer to be 
held on the 9th of this month, being Wednesday, and thereafter 
on the first Wednesday of each succeeding month, which it 
resolved to communicate to the court of the aforesaid colony and 
subsequently to the Reverend Domine Gideon Schaets, in order 
that it may thus be observed and punctually carried out in 
accordance with the good intention and meaning of the Hon. 
General and Council of New Netherland. 



Court Minutes, J 652-1 656 61 

[49] Extraordinary Session, Thursday, April 10, 1653 

Present: 
The honorable fiscal Maximiliaen van Geel J: Verbeeck 
Paulus Leendertsz J : Dyckman J : Thomasz 

For the accommodation of the good inhabitants here, sur- 
veyors have been summoned to lay out some lots beyond Gysbert 
Cornelisz, from his lot to the palisades of the land in use by 
Thomas Jansz, which surveyors having reported that eight lots, 
each forty feet wide, may be conveniently laid out, the first lot 
is given to Commissary Dyckman, the second to Domine Gideon 
Schaets, the third to Abraham Staets, the fourth to Jan Labatie, 
the fifth to Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, and the sixth to Pieter 
Ryverdinck, the other [two] lots to be granted later when there 
is occasion for it. 

CoR: VAN TiENHOUEN 

Joannes Dyckman 

Extraordinary Session, Saturday, April 12, 1653 

Present: 
The honorable fiscal R: Jacopsz J: J: Schermerhooren 
Paulus Leendertsen A: Herpertsz C: Theunisz 
M: van Geel J: Verbeeck Jan Thomasz 

J: Dyckman 

Commissary Dyckman having submitted to the court that yes- 
terday, with the consent and order of the honorable fiscal, he 
had caused Jochem Becker, the baker, to be summoned by 
Pieter Reverdingh, the court messenger, because in violation of 
the ordinance he had in the absence of the commissary publicly 
blown the horn to sell white bread, directly contrary to the tenor 
of the ordinance of the Hon. Director General, and in addition 
given out and stated to the Hon. Abraham Staets that he had 
permission thereto from the aforesaid commissary, he has 
appeared before the court and persisted in his statements, and 



62 Fori Orange and Beverw^cl^ 

apf>ealed to Hendrick Jansz Westerkamp, also a baker in Bever- 
wyck as a witness, who being also summoned to appear by order 
of this court, was asked whether he, Westerkamp, had any 
knowledge thereof, whereupon he declared. No, so that the state- 
ment is found to be untruthful. The court having considered 
the evil consequences and results which might arise if no proper 
provision were made, especially at this juncture of time, [50] 
in the matter of disregard of the well-meant ordinances of the 
Hon. Director General and Council of New Netherland and 
false accusation of the commissary, therefore condemn the afore- 
said Becker, as they do hereby, to pay a fine of fifty guilders 
within twenty-four hours, on pain of execution, one-third to go 
the poor. 

This court having seen and read the written complaint and 

demand of the Hon. Fiscal Cornelis van Thienhooven against 

Jochem Becker, baker in Beverwyck, and the proper evidence 

in the case, showing contempt of this court and that some time 

ago he not only slandered the Hon. Magistrate Volckart Jansz 

and called him names, but also wanted to attack him by force 

with the sword which he had put on, demanding that his honor 

should go outdoors and intending to cut him; also that he has 

failed to show proper respect for this court and has refused to 

move the pigpens according to the order of this court which to 

the annoyance and detriment of his neighbor he had erected in 

front of the door; furthermore that he has unjustly accused the 

honorable magistrates, namely, by stating that when they came 

out of court they reported what had taken place at the house of 

Jan van Hoesem; and that he has falsely charged Commissary 

Dyckman with having offered to Jan van Hoesem to deliver to 

him the lot of Willem Juriaensen for three beavers, all according 

to his own confession made before this court; all of which are 

matters of very serious consequence; therefore, this court have 

unanimously decided, as they do hereby, to condemn him, on 

promise and in hopes of better behavior, to pay a fine of one 

hundred guilders, to be paid within twenty-four hous, on pain of 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 63 

peremptory execution, or the double amount within forty-eight 
hours, and so on in succession, whereof one-third is to go to the 
poor, one-third to this court and one-third to the prosecuting 
officer. Also that he shall immediately tear down and remove 
the pigpens, or that they shall be immediately torn down by 
order of this court. 



[51] Extraordinary Session, Post meridiem, April 12, 1653 

Present: 

The honorable fiscal J: Dyckman J: Thomasz 

Paulus Leendersen R: Jacopsen C : Theunisz van Westb'. 

Maximiliaen van Geel A: Herpertsen 

Before this court appeared Jan van Hoesem and Willem 
Juriaensen and exhibited a certain contract made between them 
under date of the 30th of January 1650. 

Parties on both sides having been heard and the matter being 
duly considered, it is decided and ordered by the court that the 
aforesaid contract shall in all its parts and according to the tenor 
thereof be completely observed and carried out by the parties 
on both sides, with the understanding that the property men- 
tioned in the contract shall be placed in the hands of Jan van 
Hoesem to have the use thereof according to the terms of the 
said contract. Furthermore, to prevent all further disputes and 
differences, it is ordered that Willem Juriaensen shall have to 
comport himself as a decent old man should and at noon and 
in the evening come to meals at regular hours as is proper and 
shall also have to be satisfied with the ordinary food which Jan 
van Hoesem daily provides for himself and his family; there- 
fore, that Jan van Housem is not bound to supply Willem 
Juriaensen outside of his own house with food, or drink, or 
money for board. 



64 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

Ordinary Session, Tuesday, April 29, 1653 

Present: 

J : Dyckman J : Verbeeck Cor : Theunisz van Westbroeck 

R: Jacopsz J: J: Schermerhoorn Jan Thomasz 

A: Herpertsz 

Jan Barentsz Poest, plaintiff, against Marten, the brewer, 
defendant, for two thousand brick delivered by plaintifF to the 
defendant. 

Defendant admits that he is indebted for the brick and that 
he built his oven with them. 

Plaintiff says that he heard Hendrick de Moff " say that the 
defendant broke his contract first. 

The court orders the plaintiff to produce at the first oppor- 
tunity the evidence which he claims to have of the breaking of 
their contract, when this court will consider the matter further 
and take a decision. 

The Reverend Domine Gideon Schaets having appeared 
before the court requests to have a garden heretofore drawn by 
lot by Dirrick Bensingh, [marked] No. 24. 

[52] The said Dirrick Bensingh having appeared, has 
offered to relinquish the same and it is therefore given to his 
Reverence. 

Dirrick Bensinck is granted a garden behind the fort, No. 1 1 , 
with the consent of the Hon. Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren, who 
gets No. 16 in place thereof. 

The garden heretofore provisionally given to Dirrick Ben- 
singh, next to Ariaen from Alckmaer, it is decided to give to 
Hendrick Jochemsz, upon condition that he, Hendrick Jochemsz, 
shall compensate Dirrick Bensinck for the palisades, carting of 
brick, etc., it being left to the discretion of the Hon. Andries 
Herpertsz and the Hon. Jan Verbeeck to indicate to said Ben- 
singh how much he is entitled to claim therefor. 

Steeven Jansz, plaintiff, against Merten, the brewer, defend- 
ant, for 187 guilders due by defendant to plaintiff for wages 



^A contemptuous expression applied to a German. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 65 

earned by him, in regard to which judgment has been given 
before. 

Defendant promises to do his best to pay within 8 or 14 
days at the longest fl.50; another fli. 50 a month later and the 
rest at the first opportunity. 

Dirrick Bensingh, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, 
defendant, for fl. 104:- for goods delivered. 

Defendant admits the debt. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid 
sum of fl. 1 04 : — on the first of August next ensuing, on pain 
of execution. 

Jochem Becker, plaintiff, against Jan van Hoesem, defend- 
ant, for throwing dirty water and dirt on plaintiff's [53] lot. 

Defendant and his family are ordered by the court to refrain 
therefrom, on pain of [forfeiting] the first time twelve guilders, 
the second time twenty-four guilders, and [of being subjected] 
the third time to arbitrary correction. 

Upon the request of the Hon. Jan Labatie that the case 
between Rut Arent and Lyssbet Rosekrans pending before this 
court might be disposed of, the officer is requested and ordered 
to have the complaint and demand ready at the next session of 
the court. 

There was read a petition of Thomas Sanderts and Master 
Ariaen van Ilpendam, praying for extension of time in which 
to fence in their garden heretofore granted to them. Time is 
given them until the first of October next- 

There was read a petition from Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, 
praying for permission to tap now and then beer by the can for 
home consumption. As the same is contrary to the ordinance, 
the request is denied. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

CORNELUS ToNISEN 

Jacob Jansen Schermerhooren 



66 Fort Orange and Bevenv^ck 

Ordinary Session, May 13, 1653 
Present: 

Rut Jacopsz J- J: Schermerhoorn J: Thomasz 

An: Herpertsz C: T: van Westbroeck J: Dyckman 
J : Verbeeck 

Dirrick Jansz, ensign, being asked whether he was willing to 
work yonder on the gristmill, or not, says. No, and is guilty 
tiierefore of contempt of the order of both courts. 

Pieter Hartgers declares that he does not recognize in this 
matter the order of the magistrates, but only of the Hon. 
General. 

Goosen Gerretsen declares that if the Hon. General orders it, 
he will work. 

Volckert Jansz declares that if it were erected between the 
boundary posts, he would do so, otherwise not. 

[54] Jochem Becker being summoned to appear, is notified 
that he must this day pay the fines heretofore imposed on him, 
amounting to fl.250:- on pain of forfeiting fl. 12 additional for 
each day that he delays to pay. 

Rut Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Jacob Clomp, defendant, for 
the balance of a last of wheat which defendant promised to 
deliver to plaintiff according to contract and of which 12 
schepels have been delivered. 

Parties are ordered to produce their documents and proofs 
on the next court day. 

Jan Barentsz Poest, plaintiff, against Merten, the brewer, 
defendant, for 2000 brick and payment. 

Parties satisfied. 

Philip Pietersz, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

There was read a writing from the Hon. Cornelis van Thien- 
hooven, fiscal, in the name of the Hon. General, besides Mr 
Rensselaers and Domine Schaets. Resolved to write about it 
to the Hon. General. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 67 

Frans Barents, Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren and Symon 
Volckertsz, having appeared, request that they may be excused 
from paying the fines for not yet having fenced in their gardens. 

Granted in view of the fact that they have already taken 
possession of the said gardens. 

Willem Juriaensen having appeared before the court and pro- 
tested that he is still willing to fulfil the contract made between 
him and Jan van Hoesem, he is informed that he can have his 
opponent summoned to appear on the next court day. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
cornelus toniseum 
Jan Thomasz 

[55] Extraordinary Session, June 6, 1653 
Present: 

J : Dyckman J : Verbeeck C : Thuenisz van Westbroeck 

R: Jacobsz J: J: Schermerhoorn Jan Thomasz 
A: Herpertsz 

Philip Pietersz Scheuler, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz 
from Monickendam, defendant, for contempt of this court in 
escaping on the 13 th and going away on the 14th of May last 
with his yacht which the plaintiff had attached and for some 
insults offered to the president in person which on trial the 
defendant could neither prove nor make good. 

The witnesses being heard and everything being considered 
that pertains to the case, the defendant is ordered to pay to the 
officer of this bench the sum of forty guilders, in addition to the 
costs of the extraordinary session and messenger fees, the 
defendant being ordered to pay the said sum within twenty-four 
hours and to declare, as he has done, that he has nothing to say 



68 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

about the officer, nor about the plaintiff, Philip Pietersz, but 
what is fair and honorable. 

Fines fl. 40: - 

Messenger fees 7 : [ 1 0] 

Extraordinary session, two days 32: - 

Total fl. 79:10 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhoor[en] 
Cornelus Tonisen 



Ordinary Session, June 10, 1653 
Present: 

Dyckman A : Herpertsz J : J : Schermerhoom 

R: Jacopsz J: Verbeeck C : Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, defendant. 
Defendant's first default. 

Claes Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Claes Cornelisz Croon, 
defendant, for a year's rent of a house standing at the Man- 
hatans, hired by defendant, Claes Rips and Frans . . . ,'^ 
for the sum of one hundred guilders, to be paid by them 
[jointly and] severally, and due on the 27th day of March 
1652. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the sum of one 
hundred guilders within the space of three weeks, on pain of 
execution. 

Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 



^* Blank in the original record. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 69 

[55a] Willem Fredrixsz, plaintiff, [against] Juriaen Theu- 
nisz, defendant, for fl.57 due to plaintiff. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid sum 
of fl.57 within the space of six weeks. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jacob Clomp, 
defendant, for having sold some brandy or strong drink to the 
savages, according to the deposition. 

The court orders that his person and yacht shall remain 
attached until the witnesses who made the aforesaid deposition 
shall have been further examined under oath and the court have 
further investigated the case. 

Resolved, to post an order prohibiting [people from letting] 
chickens, hogs, or other animals come on the bastions of the 
fort and requiring said bastions to remain properly closed, on 
pain of forfeiture [of said animals] at the discretion of the court. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhoor[en] 
Jan Thomasz 



Ordinary Session, June 1 7, 1 653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz Jan Verbeeck 

R: Jacobsz J: J: Schermerhooren Jan Thomasz 

Andries de Vos, appearing before the court, requests that 
inasmuch as Jan Labatie has conveyed to him his lot No. 4, 
past Thysen's, he be granted the ownership thereof on the usual 
conditions and writing. Whereupon Labatie, being summoned, 
has approved the same and the request is granted. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Albert Gerritsz, 
defendant, for fighting with Lambert Cornelisz, on the second 
of June last, [55b] in the company's garden. 



70 Fort Orange and Beverw^cl^ 

The deposition about the fight being examined and the defend- 
ant being found guilty according to the contents of the deposi- 
tion, the defendant is ordered to pay the plaintiff within three 
days the sum of forty guilders, with costs. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Jan Thomasz 



Extraordinary Session, June 19, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz C: Theu: v: Westbroeck 
R : Jacobsz J : Verbeeck J : J : Schermerhooren 

Gillis Douwesz Fonda, plaintiff, against Jan Dirrixsz van 
Bremen, defendant, for delivery of a hog, for which he deliv- 
ered a half anker of brandy and [paid] some incidental expenses, 
amounting to about fl.30 : -, for the payment of which the Hon. 
Rut Jacopsz has become surety. 

Aert Aertsz, plaintiff, against Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen, 
defendant, on account of fl.lO for some stockings, v/hich the 
defendant is alleged to owe the plaintiff. 

The plaintiff declares that he does not know whether they 
were charged or not when they settled their accounts. 

The defendant refers to his account. 

The parties are ordered to examine the account and if not 
paid, [the defendant is] to satisfy [the plaintiff]. 

Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen declares under solemn oath that 
Jacob Symonsz Clomp, skipper, lately sold brandy in a kettle 
to the savages at Catskill. Furthermore, in the form of an ordi- 
nary declaration, that some beavers' worth of brandy was sold 
by Jacob Clomp to the savages at the Esopus, according [56] 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 71 

to the complaint made to him by some inhabitants of the Esopus, 
who declared that they suffered great annoyance from them in 
consequence thereof. And as to Katskill, that the trouble and 
difficulties which have arisen are the result thereof and are also 
due to Kit Davitsz. 

This day. Jacobus Theunisz from Naerden has by solemn 
oath confirmed the above deposition concerning the sale of 
brandy by Jacob Clomp, as shown by his signature. 

Willem Fredrixsz has become bail for Jacob Symonsz Clomp 
on account of the selling of strong drink to the savages in the 
sum of ten hundred guilders and signed [the bond] with his 
own hand. 

Jacob Clomp is granted permission to sail for the Manhatans, 
on condition that he take on board or with him as much grain 
as he can get to be delivered at the Manhatans. 

Jacob Clomp has admitted before this court that he sold a 
kettle to the savages and that after the payment was made, there 
being 8 or 9 stivers too much, he gave the savages brandy 
therefor. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerhooren 



[57] Ordinary Session, Tuesday, July 5, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman R: Jacopsz J: J: Schermerhooren 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, defendant, 
for the sum of fl. 134:5, for cloth furnished to him. 

Defendant's third default. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the above- 
mentioned sum of fl. 134:5, within the space of three weeks, on 
pain of execution. 



72 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Elmerhuysen Kleyn, plaintiff, against Thomas Jansz, defend- 
ant, about the purchase of 34 schepels of maize, @ 30 stivers. 

Parties appeal to Dirrick Bensinck. Case adjourned until 
the next court day. 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan Machielsz, defendant. 

Defendant's first default 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Jacob Jansen Schermerhooren 



Ordinary Session, July 8, 1653 
[Present:] 

J: Dyckman J: Verbeeck 

A: Herpertsz C: Theu: Wesbroeck 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan Machielsz, defendant, 
for the sum of fl.78:- which defendant owes plaintiff and for 
which the president became surety. 

Ordered that the defendant shall pay the plaintiff Avithin the 
space of three weeks, or else that the surety shall be bound to 
do so. 

Pieter Winnen, plaintiff, against Jacob Adriaensz, wheel- 
wright, defendant, on account of the making of a wagon for the 
harvest, one-half of the payment for which he has already 
received, but which he fails to deliver. 

The court orders the defendant to finish the wagon at the 
earliest opportunity [58] and to deliver it to the plaintiff, or, if he 
remains in default, to compensate the plaintiff for his loss, the 
plaintiff being authorized to recover such loss from the defend- 
ant where and in such a way as he shall see fit. 

Herman Bastiaensz, plaintiff, against Dirrick Jansz Croon, 
defendant, in regard to disputed accounts. 

Decided that Herman Bastiaensz shall return first three 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 73 

beavers and thereafter the half of the money of Goosen Gerrit- 
sen, whereupon receipts signed by both parties shall be exchanged 
and parties must be satisfied. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
cornelus tonisen 



Ordinary Session, July 15, 1653 
Present: 

J : Dyckman J : Verbeeck J : Thomasz 

R: Jacobsz A: Herpertsz C: T: v: Westbr: 

Paulus Schrick, plaintiff, [against] Femmetgen Albertsz, 
defendant, for 11.100 or 12|/2 beavers, according to obligation. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid sum of 
one hundred guilders to the plaintiff before the departure of the 
ships for patria, on pain of execution, the house to be plaintiff's 
security and he to be preferred to others. 

Mariken ten Haer, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, plaintiff 
being charged with having beaten her at the house of Hendrick 
Jansz Westerkamp and thrown her goods into the street, accord- 
ing to the declaration of Hendrick Jansz Westerkamp. 

Defendant's first default. 

Jacob Clomp, plaintiff, against Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen, 
defendant, for two hundred and twenty-seven guilders which 
defendant is alleged to owe plaintiff. 

Plaintiff swears to the correctness of his book, showing that 
so much is due him by balance of accounts and confirms the 
debt by oath. 

[59] The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the 
above-mentioned sum of two hundred and twenty-seven guilders 
and not to depart without having given security for the payment 
to the satisfaction of the plaintiff. 

Marten Marttensz declares that by order of Jacob Symonsz 



74 Fort Orange and Beverivy^ck 

Klomp he passed a little brandy in a kettle over the side of the 
bark to the savages at Katskill. 

The court having seen the written complaint and demand of 
Commissary Dyckmans, plaintiff ex officio against Jacob 
Symonsz Clomp, defendant, for having sold brandy to the sav- 
ages, and having examined the sworn testimony and all further 
evidence in the case, the honorable members of this court there- 
fore condemn the defendant to pay immediately a fine of two 
hundred and fifty guilders, two-thirds to go to the officer here 
and one-third to the bench, on condition that if further evidence 
be found that he has done so, he shall be punished at the dis- 
cretion of the court. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 

Extraordinary Session, July 25, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman An: Herpertsz J: J: Schermerhooren 
Rut Jacopsz Cor: Theunisz J: Thomasz 

Merten Ottsen, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsz from 
Monickendam, defendant, for 34 beavers and fl. 2:-, which the 
plaintiff claims the defendant owes him for the purchase of a 
yacht called the Gloe])ende Oven (Glowing Oven), sold by 
the plaintiff to the defendant according to the bill of sale. 

The court, having examined both parties and duly considered 
the case, orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the above- 
mentioned sum of 34 beavers and fl. 2 :— before sundown and to 
bring it here into court, [60] provided that the defendant shall 
also be bound to pay the costs of the trial and to appear here 
before the court with the beavers, on pain of execution. 

Joannes Dyckman 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 75 

Ordinary Session, August 19, 1653 
Present: 

Rut Jacopsz Cor: Theunisz Jacob Schermerhooren 
An: Herpertsz 

Jan Lamontagne, plaintiff, against Adriaen van Ilpendam, 
defendant, for fl. 64, which the defendant owes A: Keyser on 
account of the defendant's father's estate, as shown by said 
Keyser's account. 

The defendant states that he has not had so much, but only 
[goods to the value] of fl. 55:5, as may be seen by his note. 

The arguments on both sides having been heard, the honorable 
court orders A. Keyser to present further evidence against the 
defendant, to which reference is made by him in his letter. 

Furthermore, the plaintiff, as attorney in the name of his 
honorable father,^^ demands of the defendant the sum of fl, 88 v- 
earned by the plaintiff in curing the defendant's wife. As the 
defendant says that to the best of his knowledge fl. 51:15- was 
paid to the plaintiff, the court orders the defendant to pay the 
attorney, as plaintiff, the remaining sum of fl. 36:5, before the 
plaintiff's departure from here. In case the attorney finds after- 
wards that the aforesaid money was not paid and feels himself 
aggrieved, he may further seek to recover the aforesaid fl. 51 : 1 5 
from the defendant. 

[61] Ordinary Session, October 14, 1653 

Present: 

J: Dyckman An: Herpertsz J: J: Schermerhooren 
Rut Jacopsz J: Verbeeck Cor: Theunisz 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Hendrick Jochem 
and Lourens Jansz, defendants, on account of fighting and 
wounding of the person of Lourens Jansz, and against Lourens 
Jansz on account of assault in Hendrick Jochem's house and 
beating Hendrick Jochem's wife. 



^^ Doctor Johannes de la Montagne. 



76 Fori Orange and Beverrv\)cJc 

The court having examined all the evidence in the case, con- 
demn the defendants to pay fines, to wit, Hendrick Jochems in 
the sum of forty guilders and Lourens Jansz in the sum of thirty 
guilders, with the stipulation that they must henceforth leave 
each other unmolested and in peace, on pain of further action 
by the court. 

Commissary Dyckman, ex officio plaintiff, against Jacob 
Luyersz, defendant, on account of an assault committed on the 
9th of this month on the public street upon the plaintiff and 
Mr Slechtenhorst. 

Case adjourned until the next court day. Meanwhile the 
plaintiff is requested to present his written complaint and demand, 
the defendant being sent home to file his answer on the next 
court day. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck- 

CORNELUS ThONISZ 



Monday, October 21. 1653 
Present: 

The Hon. General An: Herpertsz J: J: Schermerhoren 
J: Dyckman Jan Verbeeck Cor: Theunisz 

R: Jacopsz 

Whereas some extraordinary expenses have been incurred in 
repairing the fort, building the guardhouse and executing other 
works, and some other work still remains to be done, such as 
making necessary repairs to the bridge in the village of Bever- 
wyck, which make it necessary to raise funds out of which the 
expenses incurred or still to be incurred for necessary [62] 
repairs may be defrayed; Therefore, the Honorable General 
and the Honorable Magistrates of the aforesaid Fort Orange 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 11 

and the village of Beverwyck having made a general calcula- 
tion of the expenses incurred and still to be incurred, the said 
Honorable General and the Honorable Magistrates have for 
the present time not been able to find a more expedient or suit- 
able means [of paying these] than by levying a general tax on 
the houses, lots and single persons trading here, as follows: 

A dv/elling house with interior finishing shall pay fifteen 
guilders, and if the house is leased, the tenant and the owner 
shall each pay one-half. 

A vacant lot or garden, half as much; and 

A single person, not having any house or lot, one pound 
Flemish. 

And the worthy Abraham Staets, captain of the burgher 
guard, and Sander Leendertsz are hereby authorized to col- 
lect the aforesaid moneys once for all, and after collection, to 
make payment to the creditors in the presence of the aforesaid 
court, in the absense of the Honorable General, and as treasurers 
to take care of the surplus, to be used and employed on other 
occasions as the needs of the aforesaid village and Fort Orange 
may require. 

Thus done and ratified on the 21st of October and taken up 
again on the 22d of October 1653, in Fort Orange in N: 
Netherland. 

P. Stuyvesant 

J: DyCKMAN 
RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Cornelus Thonisen 



78 Fori Orange and Deverw\)c}( 

[63] Wednesday, October 22, Anno 1653 

By the Hon. General and the magistrates of Fort Orange 
and the village of Beverwyck have been examined and inspected 
the documents in the suit between Willem Juryaensen and Jan 
Fransen van Hoesem, growing out of a contract made and 
entered into by them on the 30ih of January 1650, which said 
contract the parties on both sides have failed to fulfil, especially 
the plaintiff, Willem Juryaensen, as shown by his categorical 
answer made on the 30th of November 1651 before the court 
of the colony, as follows: "Willem Juryaensen, being asked 
by the court whether he is willing to fulfil the contract entered 
into on the 30th of January 1650 with Jan van Hoesem, answers, 
No. Agrees with the record, Anthony d'Hooges." By which 
answer the defendant, Jan van Hoesem, claims and maintains 
that the contract has been broken by the plaintiff himself and 
that therefore he is not bound by it. 

The defendant further says and maintains that the plaintiff, 
Willem Juryaensen, has broken the aforesaid contract not only 
by words, but also by deeds, in failing to perform or carry out 
the stipulations of the contract, namely, to serve the defendant 
and to teach him to bake, and by removing the baking utensils 
to prevent the defendant from baking and make it impossible for 
him to do so. 

The court, therefore, finds that according to the foregoing 
statements the contract was violated and annulled by the plain- 
tiff himself and that under the rule of law the defendant might 
be relieved of the necessity of pleading and the plaintiff's claim 
and demand be denied. However, in view of a subsequent 
judgment given by the aforesaid court and also considering the 
needy circumstances of the plaintiff and the fact that the 
defendant by virtue of the contract has built upon a part of the 
lot claimed by the plaintiff, and that the parties can not live 
together, the Hon. General and the magistrates order that the 
plaintiff shall as long as he lives stay in the old bake house, have 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 79 

the use of the bake oven and the utensils belonging thereto, 
together with his own furniture and household goods, and be 
free to dispose of them as he shall see fit. As to the claim of 
the lot, which by virtue of the contract was partly built upon 
by the defendant, the plainti^, Willem Juriaensen, occupies the 
same only by sufferance and is not entitled thereto by any patent 
or conveyance; consequently, he is not able or competent to dis- 
pose thereof as he might do of his own property. However, in 
view of the plaintiff's poverty and the fact that he has resided 
for a considerable time on the aforesaid lot and used it as a 
garden, the Director General and [64] the magistrates afore- 
said order and decide that the defendant, Jan van Hoesem, shall 
pay the plaintiff for improvements the sum of one hundred and 
twenty-five guilders, in three instalments, to wit, one-third cash, 
one-third a year from this date and the last third within two 
years, the parties respectively being ordered to acquiesce herein 
on pain of being fined twenty pounds Flemish, to be applied at 
the discretion of the court. And in case it should hereafter be 
found that the plaintiff, Willem Juryaensen, according to his 
wont, should continue to blaspheme and abuse the name of God 
or His service, or any of the magistrates of the court, whether 
in general or in particular, he shall without exception be cor- 
rected by the court, either by the infliction of banishment or 
corporal punishment, as the case may require. 

Thus done and decided, this 22d of October 1653, by the 
court of Fort Orange. 

The Hon. Director General has engaged as surveyor, for 
the service of the court and the burghers here, Harmen Bastia- 
ensz, carpenter, who has taken the following oath before the 
Hon. Director General: 

I, Harmen Bastiaensen, promise before the Hon. Director 
General that in the office of surveyor I shall conduct myself 
uprightly, without making any false returns either in favor or to 
the prejudice of any one. So, help me God Almighty. 



80 Fort Orange and Bevervp^c^ 

[65] Tuesday, November 25, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz J: J: Schermerhoren 

R: Jacobsz J: Verbeeck C: Theunisz van Westbroeck 

Pursuant to the judgment rendered on the 12th of the pre- 
ceding month, Volckgen Jans, in the stead of her husband, Jan 
Fransz van Hoesem, who is absent, has in accordance with the 
aforesaid judgment brought into court forty guilders, being the 
first payment or instalment which he, Jan van Hoesem, is to pay 
to Willem Juryaensen, thereby complying thus far on her part 
with the aforesaid judgment, which forty guilders have been 
handed to the collector, Pieter Reverdingh, to be turned over 
to Willem Juriaensz, and in case he, Willem Juriaensen, refuses 
to accept and receive them, the said Reverdingh shall report the 
circumstances on the next court day. 

In order to stop and prevent the excise frauds of beer and 
wine as much as possible in the future, it is decided to have the 
following notice posted, in order that every burgher and 
inhabitant of this jurisdiction may govern himself accordingly 
and at the same time to give the president in his capacity of officer 
power to inspect the houses and cellars of all tapsters when there 
is occasion for it or necessity may demand it. 

Notice 

Whereas in the presence and with the approval of the Hon. 
Director General it has been decided by this court that, in order 
to stop and prevent as far as possible all frauds of the excise of 
beer and wine, every burgher and inhabitant of this jurisdiction, 
as well as the tapsters, before having their purchased heavy 
beer and wines carried into their houses and cellars, shall be 
bound to obtain, or cause to be obtained, a proper certificate 
from the collector, Pieter Reverdingh, without paying however 
any excise, but only a fee of two stivers for the writing of the 
certificate of delivery, [66] on pain of forfeiture of the beer. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 81 

wines, or distilled liquors, and in addition of paying the requisite 
fine; therefore, this is hereby brought to the notice of the com- 
munity, in order that every one may in the future govern him- 
self accordingly and prevent his suffering any loss, notw^ithstand- 
ing it has heretofore been ordered and proclaimed that no sloops 
coming from the Manathans may unload before they have 
obtained consent or the officer has been on board to make a 
proper inspection, on pain of incurring the penalty provided 
therefor. 

Thus done at the session of this court, in Fort Orange, on the 
date above w^ritten. 

Warrant for the president, in his capacity of 
officer, to inspect the houses and cellars of all the 
tapsters living within this jurisdiction 

The commissary, Joannes Dyckman, is hereby authorized by 
this court to inspect on occasion, as often and repeatedly as it 
will suit his convenience or circumstances may require it, the 
houses of all tapsters belonging to this jurisdiction, and in case 
he finds any heavy beer, or wines, or distilled liquors which have 
not been entered, to seize these and to do therewith as is proper, 
and whoever is found to oppose this shall be dealt with according 
to the exigency of the case. In witness whereof this is signed in 
Fort Orange, on the date above written, and was signed: Rutger 
Jacobsz, Andries Herpertsz, Jan Verbeeck, Jacob Schermer- 
hooren, Cornelis Thonisz, Jan Thomasz. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerho[oren] 
Jan Thomasz 
Cornelus Thonisen 



82 Fort Orange and BeverTV})ck 

[67] Tuesday, November 9, 1653 
Present: 

J : Dyckman J : Verbeeck Cor : Theunisz 

R: Jacopsz J: Schermerhoren Jan Thomasz 

A: Herpertsz 

The collector, Pieter Reverdingh, reports to the court that 
by order of the court he has offered to Willem Juriaensen the 
forty guilders in seawan, being the first payment or instalment 
which he was to hand said Willem Juriaensz in the name of 
this court, but that he, Willem Juriaensen, has refused to accept 
said money. Whereupon it is decided that this money shall for 
the present remain in the hands of the collector aforesaid, until 
further order of this court. 

Rem Jansz, smith, by virtue of a power of attorney from 
Jan Jansz from Gottenborgh, shown to this court, demands in 
his, Gottenborgh's, name of Merten Herpertsz, mason, [pay- 
ment] according to a bond executed before schepens on the 8th 
of October 1 65 1 , in the sum of fifty-eight beavers, which he 
agreed to pay even before the departure of the ships and which 
IS not yet paid, [praying that] in case of longer delay he may 
proceed to execution and in that way secure payment. 

Resolved, that the defendant, Merten, the mason, shall be 
bound to satisfy plaintiff within the space of six weeks, on pain 
of peremptory execution, according to law. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against the following per- 
sons, on account of their not having built upon or fenced in their 
lots or garden assigned and granted to them within the specified 
time granted to each, on pain of being fined fl.25, and whose 
time has long since expired, 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden has adduced reasons for excuse 
which are so far-fetched that he, the defendant, or the person 
who claims the title to the lot, shall at the first opportunity have 
to tender and pay the required twenty-five guilders to the officer. 

Gabriel Leendertsen, about inclosing his garden, although he 
has not built on any lot, according to the order. He offers 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 83 

excuses which are so far-fetched that he must build in the spring 
at the latest on a lot to be requested by, and assigned to, him, 
on pain of being deprived of the garden and of paying imme- 
diately to the officer a fine of fl.25 and fl.3 for having used 
abusive language before this court, total fl.28, in case he fails 
to build. 

[68] The commissary, for reasons above written: 

Master Adriaen van Ilpendam, schoolmaster, who has offered 
excuses which are accepted as sufficient. 

The excuses of Rem Jansz, smith, being heard, but not judged 
sufficient, he is ordered to pay at the first opportunity the sum 
of twenty-five guilders. 

Machiel, the lademaJier, condemned likewise in the sum of 
fl.25. 

Pieter Bronck, as above, fl.25. 

Goosen Gerritsz likewise in the sum of fl.25. 

Pieter Hertgers for not inclosing his two gardens, one of 
himself and the other of Annetgen Bogardus, @ fl.25:- each, 
is condemned in a fine of fl.50. 

Merten, the mason, in the sum of fl.25, for not having built 
on his lot behind his house. 

Lourens Jansz absent, and his first default. 

Jacob Clomp and Willem Bout. Parties' first default. 

Jochem Ketelhuyn, on account of the garden. First default. 

Ellert Gerritsz. First default. 

Jacob Luyersz, being summoned and informed of the com- 
plaint and demand of the officer, ex officio, on account of the 
assault comm.i'ued in the street, appeals [for his defence] to the 
personal appearance of Mr Slichtenhorst before this court. 

Resolved, to request Mr Slichtenhorst to consent to appear 
on the next court day, in order to proceed upon a surer founda- 
tion. 

Flendrick Jochemsz, innkeeper, for smuggling a half barrel 
of good beer, laid in last Saturday. 



84 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Defendant acknowledges the fact but states that he has not 
been able to enter the same on account of the inconvenience of 
his wife's being in childbed. 

Resolved, this first time to overlook the matter, he to pay 
the excise without any fine, but that in the future he shall have 
to guard himself against repeating the offense, on pain of paying 
the full fine provided in such cases. 

Elmerhuysen Kleyn and Jan, the soldier, being summoned 
to appear, they are notified that they must henceforth perform 
the company's service as required, whereupon Elmerhuysen has 
answered that he was out of the service. Resolved, that the 
commissary shall inform the Hon. General hereof by letter. 

[69] Albert, the carpenter, being cited to appear on account 
of the inclosing of his garden, first default [is entered against 
him]. 

The collector, Pieter Reverdingh, reports to the court that 
Herman Bastiaensz, Hendrick Jochemsz and Willem Bout 
bought some goods of the persons who perished, which until now 
they have not paid for. They are ordered to pay the collector 
without delay for what they have received, on condition that 
they are to share pro rata with the other creditors in the dis- 
tribution and shall receive what is proper. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Jan Thomasz 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 85 

Tuesday, December 23, 1653 
Present: 

J: Dyckman A: Herpertsz Jan Thomasz 

R: Jacopsz J: J^ Schermerhoren 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, mason, 
defendant, for fl.358:14-, which defendant owes plaintiff. 
Requests payment, or in default thereof a bond executed before 
this court. 

Defendant's first default, 

Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren, plaintiff, against Merten Her- 
pertsz, mason, defendant, for what is due by defendant to plain- 
tiff according to his account for goods delivered a long time ago, 
amounting to fl.247:— and also for upsetting a canoe, in which 
were about 30 schepels of maize and a mudde of beans, which 
were thereby spoiled and perished through his carelessness. 

Defendant's first default. 

Albert Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, mason, 
defendant, for 32 beavers which defendant [70] owes plaintiff, 
according to a bond in which he specially binds and mortgages 
his house, arising from wages earned in building his house and 
goods delivered to him, upon which the defendant has paid six 
beavers on account. 

Defendant's first default. 

Albert Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, 
defendant. 

Defendant's first default. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff ex officio, against Jacob 
Symontsz Clomp, defendant, for payment of a fine of fl.250:— 
imposed by sentence of the 15th of July last. 

Defendant is again ordered by the court to bring this money 
and to deposit it within twenty-four hours in the hands of the 
collector, Pieter Reverdingh, on pain of peremptory execution, 
but with this reservation that in case he has hereafter any charges 
to bring against the officer in regard to any words passed at the 



86 Fort Orange and Bevenv})cli 

house of Willem Fredrixsz, according to the deposition exhibited 
[to the court], he, the defendant, can do so, but that mean- 
while he must comply with the sentence. 

This being brought to the defendant's notice, he declares that 
he is not willing to do so and refuses to satisfy the judgment. 

Commissary Dyckman, ex officio plaintiff, against Willem 
Fredrixsz Bout, defendant, on account of slander, abusive lan- 
guage and assault committed on the plaintiff when the honorable 
court on the 9th instant was sitting at the house of Pieter Bronck 
to settle the accounts of the persons who perished, namely Frans 
Borremans, Jurgen Evertsz and Abraham Jacobsz, carpenter, 
when, as set forth in the complaint and demand of the president 
and officer, he dared to villify the honorable court there; where- 
fore it is resolved [71 ] to insert the same here as follows, to wit: 

Commissary Dyckman, in his capacity of officer ex officio 
plaintiff, against Willem Fredrixsz Bout, defendant. 

Whereas this day two weeks ago, being the 9th day of this 
month of December, the plaintiff was sitting with the members 
of the court here in the house of Pieter Bronck, innkeeper, to 
make an estimate of the goods left behind and sold by the per- 
sons who perished, namely, Frans Forremans from Veuren, 
Jurgen Evertsz from Rencum and Abram Jacopsz, carpenter, 
and of what might be due by and to the joint creditors and 
debtors, in order to do justice to every one according to law and 
to give satisfaction as far as [the money] will go; it happened 
that the defendant, while the plaintiff sat at the table with some 
members of the court to make the aforesaid calculation and 
consider the matter, has dared to assault the plaintiff without a 
word of warning or reply and in the presence of the court has 
almost pushed him off the bench on which he sat, so that the 
honorable court, on account of the confusion which arose from 
the defendant's attack, were forced to suspend the business com- 
menced. Yes, what is more, after the plaintiff had arisen, he 
not only threatened to beat him, but in addition often and 
repeatedly called him ^n unfaithful man and a rascal and that 
he had shown himself as such to the defendant, repeating the 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 87 

same statement many times, and whereas this took place pubUcly 
and in the presence of the court as aforesaid, it is not necessary 
to have any further proof that the common and honest testi- 
mony which may be secured from the bystanders if necessary. 

The plaintiff, therefore, in the capacity aforesaid, demands 
that the defendant, in vincuUs, as a criminal and malefactor, 
[72] shall have to answer for his deeds and in case the court 
here, contrary to the plaintiff's rightful expectations, refuses to 
do justice in the matter, he requests that the defendant may 
meanwhile remain in vinculis until the river is open, in order to 
be sent in irons to the Hon. General and Council of New Nether- 
land at the Manathans to answer there before their honors for 
his crimes if he can; and otherwise, that he be punished here 
as an example to others, justice having been made an object of 
derision, as far as it lay in his power. As the plaintiff trusts 
that his demand for imprisonment will not be denied, he av/aits 
an order thereon from this court. This 23d of December 1653, 
in Fort Orange, and was signed: Joannes Dyckman. 

Which complaint and demand having been read and exam- 
ined by this court, it is resolved by their honors that a copy 
thereof shall be served on the defendant at his house, with order 
to deliver his written defense on the next court day, when the 
further complaint and demand of the officer are to follow. 

Maximiliaen de Winter, appearing before the court, requests, 
in accordance with the recommendation of the Hon. General, 
that he be permitted to dwell in the company's little house, [the 
same to serve for the accommodation] of himself as well as of 
the court messenger, Pieter Reverdingh. 

The matter being taken into consideration it is resolved and 
decided that as the clerk urgently needs a small place to write 
in and to keep his writings and papers, the same shall be kept 
therefor in the future, but that for the present the said de Winter 
shall also be allowed to reside there until further order. 

The collector, Pieter Reverdingh, has presented to the court 
his account [73] of the receipts and disbursements of the per- 



68 



Fort Orange and jBevern;j;c^ 



sons who perished, Abraham Jacopsz, carpenter, Jurgen Evertsz 
from Rencum and Frans Bormans from Veuren, which is 
accepted and approved. 

Commissary Dyckman, ex officio plaintiff, against Lourens 
Jansz, defendant, to reply to the following interrogatories: 

Interogatories on which this court is to examine Lourens Jansz, 
burgher and inhabitant of Beverwyck 

1 How old he is and where Answers, 48 years and born 



born? 

2 Whether about four 
months ago he was not in the 
Esopus with Commissary 
Dyckman? 

3 Whether, when there, he 
did not understand and hear 
Christoffel Davits say, in pres- 
ence of the commissary, that 
he, Christoffel, had sold to 
the savages at one time 22 
muisgens of brandy and after- 
wards also a half anker of 
brandy? 

4 Whether he did not 
understand and hear Marcelis, 
the servant of Mr de Hulter, 
say that he, Christoffel Davits, 
now and then had sold not 
one, but several ankers of 
brandy to the savages, which 
he, Marcelis, had noticed and 
seen [74] while he lived there 
at the house of Christoffel 
Davits? 



at Hoesem.^" 



An 



swers 



.Yes. 



An 



swers 



, Yes. 



Answers, Yes, and thai 
Christoffel Davits himself said 
that the sacJ^emaas of the sav- 
ages themselves had been to 
see him. Kit Davits, and 
begged him not to sell any 
more brandy to the savages, as 
through it they got into serious 
fights with each other and 
made trouble. 



Husum, in Schleswig. 



Court Minutes, f 652-1 656 89 

Which interrogatories, the questions as well as the answers, 
were sworn to by the defendant before the officer. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermehooren 
Jan Thomasz 

Extraordinary Session, Wednesday, December 25, 1653 

Present: 

All, with the exception of Jan Verbeeck 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Poulus Thomasz, defendant, 
for fl. I26:15st. which are due to plaintiff by defendant. 

The defendant being heard, admits that he owes plaintiff 
fl.l09:-. 

The plaintiff offers to swear that the entire sum aforesaid is 
due to him. 

The defendant is ordered by this court not to leave this juris- 
diction without having satisfied the plaintiff, either by paying 
him, or by giving good security. Furthermore, the defendant 
is condemned to pay the costs of the suit, provided that the 
plaintiff shall advance the money and have a claim on the 
defendant for the return and restitution thereof. And in case 
the plaintiff swears that according to his book he is entitled to 
the entire amount aforesaid, the defendant shall have to pay 
and satisfy the plaintiff. 

It is decided and resolved to have the court messenger sum- 
mon Jan Barentsz Wemp [75] to appear on the next court 
day, provided that he, Wemp, bring with him the order he may 
have from the Hon. General as to inclosing the lot next to that 
of Gysbert Cornelisz, deceased. 



90 Fort Orange end Beverw^c}^ 

Propositions made this day by Stick Stiggery and others 
in the name and on the part of the Maquas 

First, that this court would write to the French authorities in 
Canada that the peace concluded between the Maquas and the 
aforesaid French was agreeable to us and that we or the 
Christians were well pleased with it. To which was answered. 
Yes, and that at the first opportunity we should communicate 
the matter to the Hon. General. 

The Maquas further requested that this court would write 
to the French nation there that in case they had any difficulties 
and again got involved in war with the French savages, that the 
French should keep out of it. Whereupon the Maquas were 
given for answer that this would be written by this court alone. 

Which propositions and answers were made in the presence 
of two French delegates, whereupon it was resolved to send the 
following letters in French or Latin to Mess*^^ de Loison and 
Boucher, the contents of which are as follows: 



To Mons*^ Johan de Loison,^"'' governor in Quebec and Pierre 
Boucher, commander on the three rivers. 

To Mons"" Loison 
Honorable, etc. 

We have duly received your honor's agreeable letter of the 
19th of the past month of November and learned both from 
this letter and the report made by the two Frenchmen who were 
sent to us and some Maquas Indians of the treaty of peace made 
between your honor's nation and the Maquas, in which we 
rejoice not a little with your honor, seeing that this sad war has 
to our deep sorrow been carried on for so long between [76] 
your honor and the said Indians, which we should have liked 
to have ended sooner, but which it seems could not be brought 



^'^''Jean de Lauson, governor of Canada, 1651-56. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 91 

about. We, on our side, hope that the same may continue for 
a long time, for the best of your honor and ourselves. On our 
side we have never failed to ransom the Christian prisoners of 
your nation out of the hands of these cruel people, as far as it 
was possible, which by nature and God's command we found 
it our duty to do and which we therefore did gladly, even at a 
considerable sacrifice and expense to the community here, as 
your honor can readily understand yourself. This nation of 
the M aquas has even this day promised us that as far as it is in 
their power they will observe and carry out the [terms of] peace 
concluded [with them] and they have requested us to ask your 
honor that the same might be done on your side, which we doubt 
not, provided there be no shortcoming on their side. 

Furthermore, if they, the Maquas, should become involved 
in any war or trouble with your honor's savages, they request 
that your honor and your honor's nation would not interfere, 
which we could not do otherwise than promise them [to write] 
and which we therefore do hereby, and which we shall also at 
the first opportunity communicate by letter to the Hon. General, 
at the Manathans. 

On our part we shall not fail to make every effort in our 
power to keep the Maquas disposed to continue the recently 
concluded peace, much innocent Christian blood of this nation 
having been shed to our great sorrow. We doubt not of your 
honor's good disposition and earnest inclinations toward us, such 
as we, by reason of the close alliance between our respective 
principals, also bear toward your honor and your nation and 
which on all occasions that may arise, as has been shown here- 
tofore and as behooves close allies, [77] shall not be lacking 
on our part. Meanwhile, after greetings, we commend your 
honor and all the good friends there to [the protection of] God. 

Canaqueese, the bearer hereof, a savage who is much beloved 
by the Maquas, has requested of us a letter of recommendation 



92 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

to your honor, in order that he may be well treated there and 
be allowed to go and come freely, which we request hereby. 

Dependmg thereon, we remain. 

Your honor's willing servants, the president and 
magistrates of the court of Fort Orange and 
Beverwyck. 

And was signed in the name and by order of the 
aforesaid court, 

Joannes Dyckman 
Fort Orange, December 
25. 1653 

Mutatis mutandis a letter was sent the same day to Mons' 
Pieter Boucher, governor on the three rivers, except [that it was 
stated therein] that we had received his honor's letter of the 
eleventh of November aforesaid. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Cornelus Thonisen 
Jan Thomasz 



[78] Tuesday, January 6, 1654 
Present : 

All, except Jan Vei'beeck 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, defend- 
ant, for fl.358:- which the defendant admits he owes to the 
plaintiff according to a note signed on the 1 0th of December last 
past. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid sum 
of fl.358:- within six weeks, on pain of execution. 



Court Minutes, f 652-1 656 93 

Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren, plaintiff, against Merten Her- 
pertsz, defendant, for fl.247 :- which the defendant owes plain- 
tiff and further for 30 schepels of maize and a mudde of beans 
which were lost through the defendant's carelessness, as shown 
by the affidavit of Christoffel Davits. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the afore- 
said fl.247 :f- within six weeks, on pain of execution. As to 
the maize and beans, parties are referred by this court to Rem 
Jansz, the smith, and Adriaen Jansz from Ley den, as referees, 
who are to bring about an agreement if they can and to report 
their findings to this court. 

Lysbet Cornelis' daughter, plaintiff, against Merten Her- 
pertsz, defendant, for fl. 1 74 :- which defendant owes plaintiff 
according to the account handed in. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid 
fl. 1 74 :- within six weeks, on pain of execution. 

[79] Albert Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, 
defendant, for fl.208:- or 26 beavers, which are due to the 
plaintiff from the defendant for wages earned and for what he 
furnished the defendant according to the defendant's own con- 
fession. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the afore- 
said sum of fl.208:- within six weeks, on pain of execution. 

Albert Gerretsz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, 
defendant. 

Defendant's first, that is to say, second default. 

Jacob Jansz Flodder, plaintiff, against Dirrick Bensingh, 
defendant, on account of the purchase of a half interest in a 
yacht called the Princess Ro])ale, according to the bill of sale 
executed before Commissary Dyckman on the first of this month, 
bought by the defendant of Jacob Jansz Stoll. 

The arguments on both sides having been heard, it is decided 
to refer parties to Volckert Hansz and Pieter Hertgers, referees, 
who are to bring about an agreement if they can and to report 
their findings to this court. 



94 Fort Orange and Beverivy^ck 

Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Roeloff Jacopsz, innkeeper, 
defendant, about a mudde of wheat. 

Defendant's first default. 

Jacob Symontsz Clomp, appearing before the court, com- 
plains that Commissary Dyckman has attached some moneys in 
the hands [80] of Jan van Bremen at Katskill, and also about 
some abusive language used at the house of Willem Fredrixsz. 

The court orders the attachment vacated whenever he, Clomp, 
delivers to this court the fl.250:— which he must pay pursuant 
to the sentence heretofore pronounced, which money he. Clomp, 
is to deliver into the hands of the Hon. Rutger Jacopsz, under 
the penalty provided. 

Upon examination of the account of Goosen Gerritsen for 
beer delivered to the Hon. Company and to Commissary Dyck- 
man, it is resolved at his request to give for apostil that he will 
be paid next spring, or that he must wait until the arrival of the 
Hon. General, when a decision will be made as to the payment 
of the aforesaid account. 

At the request of Merten Herpertsz, mason, it is resolved that 
his house and garden will be sold by this court, for the purpose 
of paying his joint creditors out of the proceeds of the sale, at 
the house of Pieter Bronck, innkeeper, a Vv^eek from the follow- 
ing Monday, being the 19th of this month of January, at two 
o'clock in the afternoon. 

Commissary Dyckman and the collector, Pieter Reverdingh, 
are authorized by this court, this afternoon, at the house of 
Pieter Bronck, to make up the accounts of the persons who v/ere 
lost and drowned, and in accordance therewith to settle with 
every one pro rata to the amount that is due him and draw bills 
of exchange on whom and for such amounts as may be necessary. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Cornelus Thonisen 
Jan Thomasz 



Court Minutes, 1 652- J 656 95 

[81] Tuesday, January 13, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempio Rutger Jacopsz 

Albert Andriesz, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, defend- 
ant, about boards delivered to plaintiff by the defendant to the 
value of 27 beavers. 

Defendant declares that he does not know how he can pay 
for them. 

The court decides that the plaintiff may take back the boards 
delivered by him, notwithstanding the attachment issued against 
them, and in case there are any less than the full number 
delivered, he can afterwards make this known to the court, so 
as to recover damages for them if possible. 

Cornelis Thomasz, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, 
defendant, for fl.78:- which plaintiff claims for washing 
defendant's dirty linen. 

Defendant admits the debt, and is ordered to pay plaintiff 
the fl.78:— within six weeks, on pain of execution. 

Albert Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, defend- 
ant, for four beavers and fl.56 in seawan, for wages claimed by 
plaintiff of the defendant. 

The court orders defendant to pay plaintiff the aforesaid 
amount with costs within six weeks, on pain of execution, and 
as to the complaint made by the defendant that the ground 
timbers of his house have not been properly laid and that the 
uprights are cut too short, parties are referred to the surveyors, 
who are to inspect the work and to report their findings to this 
court. 

[82] Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Roeloff Jacopsz, defend- 
ant, for fl. 1 0, which defendant owes plaintiff. 

Defendant's second default. 

At the request of the Hon. Andries Herpertsz a garden is 
granted to him behind the fort among those that have not yet 
been allotted, for the benefit of his small house next to his resi- 
dence, at the place to be hereafter indicated to his honor. 



96 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

Hendrick Jochems, being summoned to testify in regard to 
wlvt took place in his presence on the 1 0th instant between Jacob 
Jansz Stoll and Lourens Jansz, in the course of their fight at his 
house, declares as may be seen by his declaration. Whereupon 
Commissary Dyckmans is requested and ordered to prepare 
interrogatories for the further examination of the witness on the 
next court day. Likewise Rem Jansz, smith, being also sum- 
moned to appear, declared that he was not present at the fight, 
but only heard some contentious words out of the mouth of 
Lourens Jansz and that he went away to tend to his own affairs. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Andries Herperts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



[83] Tuesday, January 20, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempio Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, plaintiff, against Jan Dir- 
rixsz van Bremen, defendant, about five schepels of wheat which 
defendant is said to owe plaintiff. 

Defendant's first default. The court, however, enjoins the 
defendant [not] to depart from here for Katskill unless he 
satisfies the plaintiff. Furthermore, with respect to the officer's 
complaint about some slanderous remarks uttered last November 
before the honorable court, the defendant must make amends to 
the court before his departure from here ; hkewise for having last 
year run away and escaped from the arrest caused to be made 
by Jacob Symentsz Klomp. And in case the defendant should 
venture to leave without permission, he shall with or against his 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 97 

consent be brought back from Katskill at bis own expense. And 
in order that he may hereafter not plead ignorance hereof, a 
written extract from this order shall be served upon the defendant 
by the court messenger; all cum expensis. 

Willem Fredrixsz, innkeeper, appearing before the court, 
requests the privilege of contracting in a lump sum for the excise 
on the beer which he may have occasion to tap in one year in 
his house, which in view of the fact that but few members of the 
court are present is laid aside until the next court day. Mean- 
while he may provisionally lay in the beer that is to be received 
by him on obtaining a certificate from the collector, Pieter 
Reverdingh. 

[84] Stoffel, the carpenter, has handed in a memorandum 
that there is due him by Merten Herpertsz, mason, according to 
his own admission, fl,3 1 :4 :-, which is entered here by way of 
memorandum and information. 

Claes Gerritsz has requested a lot on the hill near [the lot 
of] Andries de Vos. Granted to him at the place hereafter to 
be indicated to him, together with a garden for his use. 

There was read a petition of Andries de Vos, requesting per- 
mission to fence in a piece of land behind his lot, to the south of 
the third kill, into the woods, to be used as a pasture and meadow 
land. 

Decided to note in the margin of his petition that as but few 
members are present at this meeting, he may present his request 
a week from today, when the court will take favorable action 
in the matter. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



98 Fort Orange and Beverw^c^ 

[85] Extraordinary Session, Saturday, January 24, 1654 

Present: 
Omnes 

Jacob Adriaensen, wlieelwright, plaintiff, against Cornelis 
Segertsz, defendant, about the purchase of a house and lot and 
a garden belonging thereto. 

The defendant says or declares that he is willing to accept 
the house in accordance with the contract of sale, upon proper 
security. 

The court adjudges that the parties must at once have the 
contract entered into by them put in writing and that the grantor, 
when the first payment is made, must furnish two sufficient sure- 
ties for the delivery [of the property] free from all claims, the 
term of the security to extend from the date of the first payment 
until the delivery is completed. The first payment, of one hun- 
dred beavers, is to take place promptly on the first of May next 
and the successive payments according to the terms of the con- 
tract made and agreed upon by them and hereafter to be written. 
And the defendant is ordered to pay the costs of this [session of 
the] court, as he, the purchaser, upon offer of security, has 
refused to accept and take the aforesaid house and also been 
unwilling to have the contract put in writing and to forward the 
work. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 99 

[86] Extraordinary Session, Sunday, January 25, 1654 

This court having been reliably informed that the Rev. 
Domine Gidioni Schaets, at the close of the morning service, has 
announced from the pulpit that whoever had any charges to 
bring against the person of Brant van Slichtenhorst must do so 
at once, on pain of forever after keeping silent, it is after careful 
examination of the matter decided by this court to draw up a 
protest against it in writing and to have the commissary serve it 
orally at the close of the afternoon service, so as to be heard by 
the entire congregation, as follows: 

Cry by the commissary: 

Hear Ye, good inhabitants of Fort Orange and Beverwyck 
and all others who belong to the jurisdiction of the same! 

I, Joannes Dyckman, commissary and vice director of Fort 
Orange in the service of the honorable West India Company, 
together with my associate councilors or magistrates of the court 
of the aforesaid Fort Orange and Beverwyck, in the name and 
on behalf of the Honorable Company aforesaid and the Honor- 
able Director General Peter Stuyvesant and the Honorable 
Council of New Netherland, representing the supreme govern- 
ment of this country, are constrained to protest publicly in this 
place where it is customary to hold divine service, although dis- 
liking to do so, seeing that this place is not intended for the 
administration of justice, but only to be used for divine service. 

The fact is, however, [87] that it has come to the attention 
of the commissary and the magistrates aforesaid — some of 
whom have even heard it themselves and therefore have certain 
knowledge thereof — that this forenoon, at the close of the 
morning service, it has pleased the Rev. Domine Gidioni Schaets, 
contrary to the order and opinion of this court and without its 
previous consent, to announce publicly from the pulpit that who- 
ever had any charges to bring against Brant van Slichtenhorst, 
the former director of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, must do 
so forthwith, or hereafter remain silent. 



100 Fori Orange and Beverw^ck 

Considering that the said Slichtenhorst has three times, or on 
three distinct court days, in April 1652, by several inhabitants 
of this place been legally cited to appear before the Hon. Director 
General and Council of Netherland to answer their conmplaints, 
presented in this fort in the form of petitions or otherwise, and 
on his third failure to appear been declared completely in default, 
notwithstanding due opportunity was afforded him to obtain right 
and justice, the same as every one else, upon presentation of 
proper proof in the matter — which would not have been refused 
him, Slichtenhorst, if he had appeared — the court of the afore- 
said fort, and hence also of this place, feel that they can not sit 
idly by, but must notify this good community that in case he, 
Slichtenhorst, should make any further announcements (however, 
not there, which is judged improper, but rather by or before the 
judge or judges), the honorable magistrates of this court forbid 
all good inhabitants aforesaid, in spite of the announcement which 
has been made that all charges against his person must be brought 
before the court of the colony, [88] to do so, or to comply 
therewith, as it is considered illegal, since he can not be sum- 
moned to appear before that bench of justice, but only before 
the court of this place and the plaintiffs' own competent judges. 

As what has been done or occurred herein and all similar 
practices are not only prejudicial to the Hon. Company and the 
good inhabitants aforesaid, but, as is claimed and presumable in 
such cases and by such means, also tend to make the good 
inhabitants disobedient and rebellious to their lawful superiors, 
this will serve therefore to inform every one that, pursuant to 
the orders issued by the supreme government and the proper 
authorities aforesaid, the honorable magistrates of this court pro- 
hibit such announcement, or announcements, from being made 
in the future, under [threat of] calling [the offender] further 
to account and [subjecting him to] heavy penalties, the honor- 
able court declaring hereby the announcement which has been 
made to be re infacta, or null and void, and forbidding similar 
djwiouncements from being made hereafter. 



Court Minuter, 1 652-1 656 101 

Served by the commissary in the presence of the attendmg 
congregation, on the date above written, at the close of the 
second service, while, or before, the people were leaving the 
church. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 
Andries Herberts 

Tuesday, January 27, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempto Andries Herpertsz 

Jacob Symontsz Klomp, master of a bark, plaintiff, against 
Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen, defendant, for fl.l02:8:— which the 
plaintiff claims is due him from the defendant by balance of 
account for various goods delivered. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid sum of 
one hundred and two guilders and eight stivers before his 
departure for Katskill, or in default thereof to give security for 
the prompt payment as soon as the river is open, under the penalty 
heretofore provided. 

L5'^sbet Cornelis' daughter, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsz, 
that is to say, Jacob Schermerhoren, defendant, for 30 schepels 
of maize and one mudde of beans of the plaintiff, which were 
lost through the defendant's fault. 

The court, having duly examined and considered the docu- 
ments, adjudges that the defendant must pay the plaintiff the 
sum of thirty-six guilders within the space of six weeks, on pain 
of execution. 

Lysbet Cornelis, plaintiff, against Gerrit Jansz, defendant. 



102 Fort Orange and Beverxv^ck 

The plaintiff demands a perfect deed of conveyance of the 
house standing in the fort, adjoining on the south side the Hon. 
Company's newly built house and on the north side as the house 
and lot to all appearances stand and are situated, for which the 
plaintiff says the defendant was fully paid in the lifetime of her 
deceased husband, Gysbert Cornelisz. 

The defendant admits that he was paid in full to his satisfac- 
tion according to the contract of sale and that the ground brief 
was also handed and delivered by him to the deceased" at the 
Manathans, to be entered in this record [90] because he 
promised to free the purchaser from all further claims in regard 
to the aforesaid house and lot foi a year and a day, according 
to law; persisting once more that he delivered the ground brief 
to Gysbert Cornelisz, deceased, at the Manathans, which is 
entered here by way of memorandum to serve the purchaser and 
plaintiff in the future in the stead of a proper deed and convey- 
ance, until such time as it shall be convenient [to execute the 
latter]. 

Claes Gerritsz, appearing before the court, requests permis- 
sion to have a lot in Beverwyck to build thereon a house and in 
addition a garden for his use. The matter being considered, it 
is resolved and decided to appoint and authorize two magistrates 
to allot to him a lot and garden, the Hon. Rutgert Jacopsz and 
Andries Herpertsz, magistrates of this court, being appointed 
for that purpose and to make a report of their findings to this 
court. 

Whereas the commissary and officer, Dyckman, complains 
that he is not yet fully paid the fine imposed by sentence on 
Arent Cornelisz Vogel, commonly called *' Schapenbout,"^* 
amounting to six guilders for himself and ten guilders for the 
poor here, and whereas this court is informed that the said Vogel 
has sixteen guilders coming to him from Abraham Pietersz Vos- 



^'^ The original record has: "was by the deceased delivered and 
handed to him." 

^* Meaning: Leg of mutton. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



03 



burgh, master carpenter, for nails delivered to him it is decided 
that the said V^osburgh shall pay the aforesaid sixteen guilders 
to both parties, each pro rata what is due to them, provided that 
the court shall free the said Vosburgh from all further claims 
on that account. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



[91] Tuesday. February 3, 1653 *" 
Present: 

All, except Jan Verbeeck 

Various persons examined on interrogatories regarding the 
crimes committed by Jacob Jansz Stoll, of Amsterdam. In the 
first place, the person of Jochem Becker, baker. 

How old he is and where Answers, 38 years; at Jeve- 

born ? ren. 

Whether last summer he did 
not keep watch in this fort as 
corporal of the burgher guard? 

Whether, at one time, being 
on watch with his corporal's 
guard, he did not see Jacob 
Jansz Stoll come to the guard- 
house drunk and full, or at 
least quite intoxicated, after 
the men had gone on watch? Answers, Yes. 

About how long ago? Declares that he has for- 

gotten, or does not know very 
well, the exact time. 



Answers, Yes. 



^« This should be 1654. 



104 



Fori Orange and Beverivyck 



What he, Hap, did there 
and whether he did not go to 
his house to get his sword, in- 
tending to clear out the guard- 
house therewith? 



Whether he at that time did 
not strike Mr Adriaen van 
Ilpendam, clerk of the burgher 
guard, standing before the fire 
at the guardhouse? 

Whether he. Hap, having 
fetched his sword, did not by 
force try to fight with him, the 
corporal, life for life? 

Whether it was Jacob 
Hap's turn to do guard duty? 

Whether he. Hap, having 
thereafter come outside [92] 
the gate of this fort, wanted to 
assault the said Mr Adriaen, 
and not only him, but any 
other bystanders who wanted 
and were willing to fight? 

Whether in the guardhouse, 
after the watch was set, he 
used much useless and abusive 
language to one person and 
another? 

Whether, he, the deponent, 
has any further statements to 
make in the matter? 



Answers, Yes, and that he 
gave Adriaen, the school- 
master, a handkerchief to fight 
against him with his sword and 
threatened to cut and hack at 
him, the corporal, with the 
sword, holding it unsheathed in 
front of said corporal's nose 
and saying: " I dare you to 
draw your colonel's rapier." 

Declares that he does not 
know exactly whether he did 
or not, but only saw that there 
was some trouble near the fire. 

Declares, Yes, holding for 
that purpose the naked sword 
before said corporal's face. 



Answers, No. 

Answers, Yes, and said to 
Mr Adriaen, " Draw your 
sword;" and wanted to attack 
him by force, which was pre- 
vented by the deponent and 
others. 

Answers, Yes, but especially 
to Mr Adriaen, calling him a 
burgher's dog and boy, yes, the 
dog of all the burghers. 



Answers, No. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



105 



The deponent has with uplifted fingers confirmed these 
answers by oath. 

Goosen Gerritsz, being heard, declares that last summer, the 
precise time he does not know, Jacob Jansz Stoll, after the 
mounting of the guard, made some trouble and out of mischief 
fired the gun which he had with him. 

Resolved that the defendant shall be examined once more on 
the above interrogatories on the next court day. 

Interrogatories for the examination of Jan Machielsz and 
Gerrit Jansz from Swoll, 



How old they are and 
where born? 



Answers, Jan Machielsz, 
aged 55 years, born at Edam, 
&nd Gerrit Jansz born at Swoll. 

They say. Yes, when it was 
their turn. 



They declare. Yes, and that 
they saw the sword, but do not 
know who brought it there or 



Whether last year they did 
not come to the guardhouse as 
burghers to do guard duty? 

Whether they did not see 
Jacob Jansz Stoll go to his 
house to get his sword to attack 
therewith the burgher watch gave it to Jacob, 
and insult them? 

[93] Whether he did not 
try to attack Jochem Becker, 
the corporal of the burgher 
guard, with his sword and 
wanted to fight with him with 
his naked sword? 

Whether he did not make 
other trouble at the guardhouse 
at that time? 



Answer, 
challenged 
fight. 



that 
the 



he, Jacob, 
corporal to 



Whether it was his watch? 



Answer, Yes, and he struck 
Mr Adriaen van Ilpendam, 
standing by the fire, without 
cause. 

They say. No. 



The deponents have with uplifted fingers confirmed the above 
statements by oath before this court. 



06 



Fort Orange and Beverrv^c^ 



Interrogatories on which this court is to examine Marcelis 
Jansz from Bommel, former servant of Mr Johan de Hulter. 



Answers, at Bommel, 25 
years of age. 

Answers, Yes, and that he. 
Davits, said so in the presence 
of still others. 



Answers, Yes, that he him- 
self understood and heard 
Christoffel Davits say so. 



First, how old he is and 
where born? 

Whether, about four months 
ago, he, besides Commissary 
Dyckman and Lourens Jansz, 
did not hear Christoffel Davits 
say that at one time alone he 
sold 22 muisgens of brandy to 
the savages? 

Whether from this selling of 
brandy and drinking of the 
savages no trouble resulted and 
arose and whether the sachems 
of the savages there did not 
come to said Davits and in 
their way forbade him to sell 
any more brandy to the savages 
and begged him not to do so, 
as they got into great trouble 
and disputes with one another 
while being drunk? 

Whether he did not see 
Christoffel Davits now and 
then sell some brandy to the 
savages ? 

Whether he knows or has 
been informed that some 
trouble among the Christians 
and the savages has resulted 
therefrom, especially with the 
Christians? 

He, Marcelis Jansz, has with uplifted fingers confirmed these 
answers by oath. 



Answers, Yes, but that he 
does not know the quantity. 



Answers, Yes, especially 
because the horses of Thomas 
Clabbort had been in the corn. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 107 

Herman Bastiaensz, carpenter, appearing before the court, 
requests payment of fl. 106:5:-, due him for wages earned in 
building the Hon. Company's new house. It is decided that he 
will be paid in three months, if the treasury allows it. 

On the petition of Andries de Vos, presented on the 20th or 
the preceding month, praying for some land behind his lot, 
stretching toward the woods, to be used as a pasture and meadow, 
it is resolved to make the following apostil: Inasmuch as the 
people here intend for their support, each one according to his 
needs, to pasture and keep some cattle there themselves, the said 
request is for the reason aforesaid for the present denied and 
not granted. 

Upon the request of Annetge Bogardus, permission is given 
her from now on to take possession of and use the garden of, or 
heretofore granted to, Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



[95] Tuesday, February 10, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes 

Commissary Joannes Dyckman, [plaintiff, against] Goosen 
Gerritsz, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. Likewise Lourens Jansz, to testify 
concerning the shooting done by Jacob Jansz Stoll after the 
mounting of the guard. 

Willem Fredrixsz, being summoned to appear in court, 
declares that Jacob Symontsz Klomp, fourteen days ago, used 
much abusive language tov/ard this court, Adriaen Jansz from 
Leyden and himself and also that he was thereby forced to leave 



108 Fori Orange and Bevern>})c1i 

and go out of his house, as otherwise he would have been forced 
to make a stand against him, Clomp, with his knife in his hand. 

Pieter Bronk, being summoned to appear, declares that 
Jacob, the carpenter, and Willem Jansz Prins, on Sunday, or 
the day before yesterday, bravely fought at his house and in 
order that they should not injure each other with knives, he, 
Bronck, had broken both their knives in their pockets before they 
began to fight. 

Jacob, the carpenter, summoned to appear in court on account 
of fighting, defendant is in default. 

Willem Jansz Prins declares that he does not know much 
about having been fighting, as he was dead drunk, but admits 
that on Sunday, even during the service, he was drinking at the 
house of Pieter Bronck. 

Resolved to have them both summoned to appear again on 
the next court day. 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, being summoned to give testi- 
mony of the truth in regard to what was done and said in his 
presence two weeks ago at the house of Willem Fredrixsz by 
Jacob Symontsz Clomp, the first default is entered against the 
witness and it is decided to have him cited again to appear on 
the next court day. 

Upon resumption of the matter, it is resolved to adjourn the 
case of Jacob Luyersz, delinquent, for mischief committed on 
the street, until the arrival of the Hon. Director General, for 
reasons submitted and known to this court. 

The Hon. Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren and Jan Thomasz, 
[96] magistrates of this court, are authorized to lay out for 
Hendrick Marcelis a lot on the hill, or wherever it may be most 
convenient and to make a report thereof to this court. 

Whereas Luykas Ahdriesz, skipper, complains that some 
money is due him by Willem Albertsz from Monickendam and 
that for that reason he had taken possession of a boat belonging 
to said Willem Albertsz, it is decided by this court that he, 
Luykas Andriesz, may keep possession of said boat until he is 
paid and satisfied. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



109 



Interrogatories on which this court is to examine Jan Roclofsz, 
burgher of Beverwyck. 



Declares and answers as 
follows : 

20 years and born in this 
country. 

Answer, When it was his 
turn. 

Declares, Yes, and that he 
heard him fire off his gun after 
the mounting of the guard. 



A 



nswers 



, No. 



First : 

How old he is and where 
born? 

Whether last year he did 
guard duty here in this fort 
together with other burghers? 

Whether among other things 
he did not see Jacob Jansz 
Stoll, coming to the guard- 
house drunk with a loaded 
gun, make much noise and 
commotion in the guardhouse? 

Whether he has any other 
statements to make corxerning 
it? 

Upon the request and complaint made to this court by the 
purchaser of the house of Merten Herpertsz, mason, sold by 
this court on the 19th of the preceding month of January, now 
occupied by Mr Johan de Hulter, who is having a cellar dug 
on the lot next to the house, which the purchaser claims and 
considers to be detrimental to the aforesaid house, it is resolved 
and decided to order the court messenger, as he is ordered hereby, 
in the name of the court to forbid Mr de Hulter aforesaid to 
have said work done, with order not only to stop said work, but 
also to replace the dirt and to have the lot put back in the state 
in which it was before the work was commenced. Furthermore, 
as according to the custom of the fatherland [97] delivery of 
all houses, lots and other pieces of real estate sold by the court 
pursuant to a writ of execution is made promptly on payment 
of the first instalment and a quitclaim deed therefor is given 
on payment of the final payment, this serves as a warning to Mr 
de Hulter aforesaid that on the first of May next the court will 



1 1 Fort Orange and Beverwy^ck 

make delivery of the aforesaid house and lot to the purchaser 
on payment of the first instalment, notwithstanding the fact that 
Mr de Hulter according to the contract might have the lease of 
the aforesaid house a little while longer, as this court, as stated 
above, governs itself according to the law and customs of the 
fatherland. And whereas by the terms and conditions of sale 
it was expressly stipulated that [the court] was selling every- 
thing as it was, without [the parties] having the right to raise 
any questions from any cause whatsoever, this serves to inform 
Mr de Hulter that on the first of May next he shall have to 
vacate the aforesaid sold house, in order that proper delivery 
thereof may be made; also that he must not make any further 
repairs; the court declaring further that inasmuch as the lessee 
had certain knowledge of the sale, he shall have to bear all 
expenses which were incurred by him on the aforesaid house and 
lot since the sale or which he may incur in the future. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Jan Thomasz 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 



[98] Tuesday, February 17, 1654 
Present: 

Dyckman Schermerhoren 

J: Verbeeck Jan Thomasz 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, being summoned to testify In 
the truth of what was done in his presence two weeks ago today 
at the house of Willem Fredrixsz by Jacob Symontsz Clomp, 
declares that he. Clomp, spoke many abusive words to him and 
challenged him to come outside the door, but that he did not 
draw a knife. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 111 

The court having considered what is above written and also 
the declaration made in regard to it at the last session of the 
court and having further taken into consideration that on Satur- 
day a week ago he fought with Jacob van Loosdrecht, they con- 
demn the aforesaid Clomp to pay a fine of fl. 1 2 to the ofHcer, 
with costs. 

Jan Barentsz Poest being cited to appear before the court to 
show his authority for fencing off the lot next to Gysbert Cor- 
nelisz, deceased, on the south side, has exhibited his ground brief 
thereof granted by the Hon. Director General, of which this 
serves as notice. 

Lourens Jansz from Hoesem, being summoned by the court, 
has answered the following interrogatories as indicated in the 
margin. 

Interrogatories on which this court is to examine Lourens 
Jansz, burgher of Beverwyck. 

How old he is and where Answers, at Hoesem,"" 48 

born? years old. 

Whether last year he did Declares, [Yes], when it 

not do guard duty in the fort was his turn, 
with other burghers? 

If, among other things, he Answers, Yes, that he heard 

did not see Jacob Jansz Stoll, it and that [Jacob] was using 
having come to the guardhouse much abusive language, 
drunk or at least quite full, fire 
off his gun out of mischief after 
the guard had gone on duty? 

Whether he has anything Answers, No. 

more to state about it? 

The honorable treasurers, Abraham Staets and Sander Leen- 
dertsen, having appeared before the meeting, declare that they 
have gone the rounds to collect the fifteen guilders ordered to 
be assessed on each house for the completion of the bridges in 



Husum, a seaport town of Sleswick. 



1 1 2 Fort Orange and Beverivy^ck 

Beverwyck, pursuant to the order of the Hon. General and this 
court, but that they did not succeed very well. It is resolved 
thereupon to have the following notice posted immediately in 
three suitable places. [The notice] reads as follows: 

The honorable magistrates of this court order all burghers 
and inhabitants belonging to this jurisdiction who have any house 
or houses standing in and therefore belonging to this jurisdiction 
to pay within fifteen days from this date fifteen guilders to the 
appointed honorable treasurers, Abraham Staets and Sander 
Leendertsen, pursuant to the order of the Hon. Director Gen- 
eral and this court, for the building of the bridges contracted for 
in the village of Beverwyck and to defray other expenses already 
mcurred or still to be incurred. Furthermore, every one who 
has been granted a lot, on which he has not yet built and which 
still lies vacant, shall pay half as much; and each free person 
residing in this jurisdiction and exercising his trade there six 
guilders; on pain, in case of failure to pay within the aforesaid 
appointed time, of forfeiting the first day after the period when 
payment should have been made three guilders, the next day 
six guilders, and so on successively each day twice as much, 
and finally of peremptory execution. And in order that no one 
may claim ignorance hereof, the honorable court aforesaid has 
caused this to be posted in the usual places. Thus done, rati- 
fied and considered the second time by the aforesaid court in 
Fort Orange, this 17th day of the month of February 1654. 
Underneath was written, By order of the honorable court in this 
place, and was signed, Joannes Dyckman. 

It is resolved to summon the surveyor, Abraham Pietersz 
Vosburgh, to appear on the next court day, with reference to 
the garden heretofore granted to Jacob Jansz Schermerhooren, 
which it is understood has been given to Andries de Vos with- 
out the knowledge of this court. 

[100] It is resolved to order the surveyors to measure the 
lot behind the lot of Sander Leendertsen and inclosed by him. 
Whereupon the aforesaid Sander Leendertsen being summoned, 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 113 

he is asked whether the aforesaid small lot was also granted to 
him? He says that it was promised to him, but that it is not 
yet mentioned in his ground brief. It is resolved to communi- 
cate this to the magistrates of this court who at present are at 
the Manathans and about this and other points to send them a 
letter reading as follows: 

To the Honorable Magistrates Rutger Jacobsz, Andries 
Herpertsz and Cornelis Theu. van Westbroeck, at present at 
the Manathans. 

Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Friends and 
Fellow Members of this Court: 

Inclosed herewith are authentic copies of the terms of sale 
of the house of Merten Herpertsz, mason, and the subsequent 
resolution passed at the request of the purchaser, on account of 
the digging of a hole for a well or a cellar in the purchased 
lot, together with a memorandum for your honors in case Mon- 
sieur de Flulter should make any further request there to remam 
in the house that was sold as lessee during the term of the lease, 
in which [copies] we hope you will find sufficient arguments and 
reasons against the frivolous contentions of Monsieur de Hulter 
aforesaid, trusting further to what your honors in such case may 
be pleased and able to advance in support thereof. 

Herewith go also the measurements of the lot of Sander 
Leendertsen, showing how much was granted to him and how 
much he has inclosed with posts contrary to orders, which per- 
son, being on that account by order of the officer legally sum- 
moned to appear before the court, declared yesterday that the 
addition to his lot is not mentioned in his ground brief, but was 
promised to him, so that your honors will be pleased to make 
further inquiry about it. As far as we can judge, Sander Leen- 
dertsen has done this on his own authority ; if so, the officer here 
will have to institute proceedings against him to prove his title. 
On the other hand, we should like to see this place [101] 
[disposed of] as we with the consent of the Hon. General 
decided, namely, to have Rutger Jacobsz and Willem Fredrixsz 



1 1 4 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

build a good horse mill on it, for the use and convenience of the 
burghers here, the said place being all the more suitable there- 
for because it is close to the kill and the river, so that it is con- 
venient to convey the grain to and from it by water. We have 
thus far not been able to find a more suitable location for this 
necessary structure. Furthermore, as Herman Bastiaensen has 
sold his house and should like to build another dwelling house 
on his lot on the first kill, also toward the river side, so far from 
the fort that it will obstruct this fort very little, [we hope] that 
he will be permitted to build, as he must have a place to live in. 
Having nothing further [to communicate] for the present, we 
commend your honors, with our greetings, to the grace of God 
and remain. 

Your honors' willing servants and friends and fel- 
low members of this court, the president and magis- 
trates of the court of Fort Orange and Beverwyck. 

Fort Orange, February 1 8, 1 654 

Was signed: JOANNES Dyckman 

Jacob Schermerhoren 
Jan Verbeeck 

The memorandum follows: 

Memorandum for the magistrates Rutger Jacobsz, 
Andries Herbertsz and Cornelis Theunisz van West- 
broeck, who have gone to the Manathans. 

That herewith go authentic copies of the conditions of sale 
of the house of Merten Herpertsz, mason, and the resolution 
passed at the request of the purchaser concerning the digging of 
a hole for a cellar or a well in the lot sold next to the aforesaid 
house. 

Which memorandum is intended to serve their honors at the 
Manathans if necessary in case Monsieur de Hulter should make 
there any further request to remain in the aforesaid house accord- 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 115 

ing to the lease drawn up between the aforesaid mason and 
de Hulter. 

First, that he, the mason, had no right to lease the said house 
in this manner, because various judgments against him, upon 
evidence of debt, had been given by this court before he leased 
the aforesaid house, to wit, that [102] he must make payment 
to his creditors v/ithin six weeks, according to the aforesaid judg- 
ments, on pain of execution. 

That he being unable to satisfy his creditors within the afore- 
said time, [the court] was forced to proceed to execution. 

That the sale, having been made by the court, necessarily 
breaks the lease, as he had no right to grant it. 

It being the accepted rule in such cases that sale breaks the 
lease, according to the custom of the fatherland and that 
although this is not stipulated in the terms of the lease, the lease 
becomes void of itself, notwithstanding ordinarily the amount 
of the rent and the period of the lease are specified, which is 
done only to make the houses and real estate bring higher prices 
and which has also been the sole aim of this court in stipulating 
that the first payment must be made on the first of May next. 

In the fatherland delivery takes place on payment of the first 

term, being the day on which the leases of houses usually begin. 

No one may lease his real estate for a year and a day whose 

affairs are in a shaky condition and whose creditors have already 

secured several judgments against him; 

For in the fatherland all leases in such case are void when 
the first payment is made. 

Even the insolvent person, if he lives in one of his houses, 
must vacate the same when the first payment is made; 

For otherwise the insolvent person would allow himself as 
much time to live therein as he pleased, which is not permitted 
by the courts in Holland, as may be seen by thousands of cases, 
but must vacate at the time stated. 

Furthermore, a mortgage on the aforesaid house for a year 
and a day has been granted and executed with the knowledge 



1 1 6 Fort Orange and Beverwy^ck 

and at the request of the lessor, which contains that the afore- 
said house is specially mortgaged to Jan Jansz from Gottenburgh, 
to be sold by him when he pleases [ 1 03 ] and whereas the pur- 
chaser has furthermore offered instead of the first payment only 
to pay the full amount upon delivery, it would be a great loss 
and detriment to the general creditors to whom larger or smaller 
amounts are due if, on account of this lease, they would have 
to wait a year and a day before being paid and thereby be 
deprived of considerable interest; 

For the net interest per year, as calculated in this country, 
on the purchase price of the aforesaid house, plus the cost of 
necessary repairs to be made, will far exceed the stipulated rent 
paid by the lessee. 

Furthermore, it is expressly stipulated in the terms of sale 
that the honorable court sells everything as it is, without either 
the purchaser or the lessee having the right to raise any questions, 
from whatever cause it may be. 

And whereas Monsieur de Hulter at present dwells in this 
jurisdiction and therefore can not be regarded otherwise than 
as a subject and burgher thereof, it is surprising that without 
notifying this court he brings further suit in the matter there. 

If he denies that he is a burgher and subject of this jurisdic- 
tion, he must without any gainsay depart therefrom according 
to the opinion of all reasonable minds; 

For no one may reside therein, not only in this but in all 
other jurisdictions, without duly respecting and obeymg the gov- 
ernment and courts thereof. 

In case he acknowledges it, it is surprising that he ignores his 
own competent judges and there seeks judicial relief. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jacob from Loos- 
drecht, defendant. 

Defendant's second default. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Jan Thomasz 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 117 

[104] Tuesday, March 3, 1654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: J: Schermerhoren 

J : Verbeeck Jan Thomasz 

Commissary Joannes Dyckman, plaintifF, against tlie follow- 
ing persons: 

Jan Hendrixsz. Defendant's first default. 

Hendrick Gerritsz, for having been drinking at Hendrick 
Jochemsz, after the ringing of the bell. Also first default. 

The commissary, plaintiff, against Jurriaen Theunisz, glazier 
and innkeeper, and Claes vande Hooge bergh, on account of 
fighting on Shrove Tuesday at the house of Jurriaen Theunisz. 

Jurriaen Theunisz, appearing, declares that his opponent came 
into his house drunk and beat him, thereby committing violence 
in his house. 

It is decided to have the parties summoned again at the first 
opportunity. 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh declares that having some time 
or some days ago been called upon to survey the lot of Dirck 
Bensingh and being busy therewith and things not going as he, 
Bensingh, liked, he said to the aforesaid surveyor: " The stake 
which stands there is more trustworthy than you are and if you 
do not survey according to the stakes which stand there, you 
survey falsely," and other similar remarks. The aforesaid sur- 
veyor maintaining that the above written statements were made, 
it is resolved and decided to have the said Dirrick Bensingh and 
both the surveyors summoned again to appear on the next court 
day. 

The commissary aforesaid, plaintifF, against Jochem Becker 
and Jacob Willemsz de Wolff, defendants, on account of fight- 
ing which took place last Saturday evening at the house of Jacob 
Willemsz. 

Jacob Willemsz declares that the old captain's hens sitting 
on the nest to lay, they were chased off the nest by Jochem 
Becker, who said that they were his hens, and when Jacob said, 



118 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

*' What do you mean? they are the old captain's hens," Jochem 
Becker challenged Jacob Willemsz to come outside the door. 
The latter not coming, he ran into the house after Jacob, grabbed 
him by the throat or neck and gave him a sound beating besides, 
calling him an old dog, without the deponent having hit him 
in return. 

The old captain, Willem Juriaensz, being summoned by the 
court, declares that what Jacob testified to above, happened as 
he said. 

[ 1 05 ] Willem Hoffmeyer being also summoned to testify 
to the truth in regard to the matter aforesaid, the first default 
is entered against him, but it is decided to have him summoned 
again to appear on the next court day. 

Jochem Becker declares that Jacob returned the blows and 
pulled him by the hair and called him a dog and a son of a 
bitch. Resolved to summon him to reappear also. 

Jacob from Loosdrecht, carpenter, having been fighting twice, 
once at the house of Hendrick Jochemsz and once at Pieter 
Bronck's, is ordered to pay to the officer here the sum of ten 
guilders, with costs, to be paid immediately. 

Abraham Crabaat, for having last Shrove Tuesday walked 
along the street in woman's clothes, is, although it is the first 
time and he offers the excuse that he did not know that he was 
doing wrong, condemned to pay a fine of six guilders for the 
benefit of the poor, with costs, to be paid immediately, provided 
that if he, Crabaat, or any one else should hereafter undertake 
to do this again, he shall be arbitrarily punished as an example 
to others. 

Albert Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Rut Arentsz, tailor, defend- 
ant, for fl.76:- in seawan and fl.32 in beavers, which defendant 
owes plaintiff for wages earned and other things. 

The court having heard the arguments on both sides, con- 
demn the defendant to satisfy and pay the plaintiff what is here- 
inbefore written within the space of twenty-four hours, on pain 
of peremptory execution. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 119 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, defendant, 
about some dispute concerning their respective lots. Resolved 
that this court itself will this afternoon make an inspection in 
order to be able to render a proper decision and to settle their 
dispute in accordance with the merits of the case. 

[106] Thomas Sandertsen, smith, appearing before the court, 
declares his inability to pay the assessment of fifteen guilders on 
each house, nevertheless expressing his willingness in the matter. 

The court having heard his reasons for being excused, accepts 
them in so far that instead of fifteen guilders, he v/ill have to 
pay only five guilders, once, to the treasurer, being thereby for 
this time excused from making further payments, without any 
precedent being established thereby. 

The court having seen and examined what the commissary 
ex officio as plaintiff has exhibited in writing against the delin- 
quent, Jacob Jansz Stoll, order the defendant aforesaid to pre- 
sent his written answer thereto promptly on the next court day, 
on pain, etc. 

The schout of the colony of Rensselaerswyck having come 
into court has delivered the following writing: 

To the Honorable Judges of the Court of Fort 

Orange and Beverwyck 
As officer of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, I respectfully 
petition your honors aforesaid as follows: Whereas it has 
pleased the Hon. Joannes Dyckman some time ago, at the house 
of the lord patroon, at the close of divine service in the after- 
noon, to read publicly to the congregation a protest concerning 
the announcement of the departure of Brant van Slichtenhorst, 
formerly director of the aforesaid colony, and it is [but] just 
that one should have positive knowledge, which one can not 
gather from hearsay alone, according to all [legal] customs, 
therefore, in my official capacity aforesaid, I request that an 
authentic copy of the aforesaid protest which was read may be 
exhibited and delivered to me, in order that I may know the 



120 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

matter itself and the foundation thereof, whereupon I expect 
your honors' apostil and consent to be written in the margin 
hereof. Underneath was written, Your honors' wilHng servant, 
and was signed, Gerrit Swart, officer. Done this 3d of March 
A° 1654, at the house of the lord patroon of the aforesaid 
colony. 

Whereupon it is resolved to make the following apostil: 

The Honorable Schout and officer of the colony of Rensse- 
laerswyck having come into court, [1071 has delivered a cer- 
tain writing whereby a copy is requested of the protest against 
the reading or announcement made from the pulpit in regard 
to the affairs of Brant van Slichtenhorst, the former director of 
the aforesaid colony, served by Commissary Dyckman by order 
of this court on the 25th of January last in the church in the 
hearing of the congregation who were present. It states among 
other things that it is just that one should have positive knowledge 
which one can not gather from hearsay, according to all [legal] 
customs, and requests that an authentic copy of the aforesaid pro- 
test may be exhibited and delivered to him, in order that he 
may know the matter itself and the foundation thereof and that 
an apostil may be entered on his petition. This serves therefore 
to state that the court in so far does not judge his request unjust 
and therefore shall furnish him with an authentic copy, subject 
only to this condition that his honor shall first or at the same 
time deliver to this court in exchange a copy of what that fore- 
noon was proclaimed in the matter by the Reverend Domine 
Gidiony Schaets, such being in accordance with all legal cus- 
tom. This court is unable to see that it is otherwise bound 
to do so and therefore also intends not to send the protest to 
his honor or whoever else may demand the same in such a man- 
ner, which is deemed impudent, unless it receives beforehand 
what was read from [the pulpit]. Otherwise, it intends to delay 
the same until the arrival of the Honorable Director General, 
who according to his honor's letter meanwhile received we expect 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 121 

at the first opportunity and to whose wise judgment we shall 
gladly defer the matter, considering it without reason that in case 
the proclamation is refused us, this court should be bound to send 
and furnish the protest to their honors of the colony, but being 
ready and willing, if the proclamation is delivered to this court, 
immediately to remit a copy as aforesaid of the protest to the 
officer aforesaid, or whoever may ask for the same in the name 
of the colony. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

Jan Thomasz 



[108] Extraordinary Session, Friday, March 13 

Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Verbeeck C: Thuenisz 

A: Herpertsz J: J- Schermerhoren J: Thomasz 

R: Jacopsz 

Pieter Adriaensen Soo Gemackelyck, plaintiff, against Cor- 
nelis Vos, defendant. 

Defendant's first default. About a tub of butter shipped by 
plaintiff's mother at the Manathans in defendant's yacht and 
not delivered to the plaintiff, according to the exhibited letter 
written by plaintiff's mother to plaintiff for that purpose, in 
which it is stated, as shown to this court, that there were 33 
pounds of butter in it. 

Furthermore, that the defendant the day before yesterday, 
at the house of Willem Bout, twice drew his knife and several 
times made a stab at the plaintiff with it, close to his body or 
belly. 

The first case is adjourned until the arrival in person of the 
plaintiff's mother herself, who is expected here any day from 
the Manathans, and the second case until later. Meanwhile, 



122 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

the plaintiff is ordered to advance the money to pay for 
the expenses of the court, further disposition in the matter to be 
made when it shall have been established v/ho is right and who 
is wrong. 

Herman Bastiaensen, plaintiff, against Pieter Adriaensen Soo 
Gemackelyck, defendant, for fl.750:- for wages earned by him, 
of which fl.150:-, or thereabouts, are alleged to have been 
paid. The plaintiff demands payment of the entire amount, not- 
withstanding the defendant says that the contract made between 
them, which is exhibited, is not yet fully carried out, he being 
willing to pay the first five hundred guilders and the balance as 
soon as the work is finished according to the contract. 

The court, having heard the arguments and debates on both 
sides, orders and adjudges that the defendant shall remain in 
custody until the work shall have been inspected by two impar- 
tial carpenters and that after they have made their report he 
shall be allowed to go home on bail. Claes Jansz from Baere^^ 
and Claes from Rotterdam are appointed inspectors to inspect 
the work this day and [109] to report their findings to this 
court, as compared with the specifications, of which a copy or 
the originals will be put into the hands of the appointed car- 
penters. The expenses involved therein shall be paid by the 
guilty or delinquent party, on pain of peremptory execution. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Cornelus Thonisen 
Jan Thomasz 



Baarn, in the province of Utrecht. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 123 

Tuesday, March 17. 1654 
Presenl: 

The Hon. General Rut: Jacopsen Cor: Theunesz 

Mr Sille An: Herpertsen Jan Thomasz 

J: Dyckman J: Schermerhoren 

Herman Bastiaensen, carpenter, plaintiff, against Pieter 
Adriaensen Soo Gemackelyck, defendant, about a certain dis- 
pute brought before the court on Friday last about wages earned 
in building the house of the aforesaid Gemackelyck. 

The court having heard the debates and arguments on both 
sides and having also examined the written report of the two 
impartial carpenters appointed last Friday to inspect the work, 
order and adjudge that the plaintiff must still make in the afore- 
said house a Bol Cos^n,^~ tongue and groove and make tight the 
ceilings, and hang the doors and windows. As to the one gable, 
which has not been tongued and grooved and planed according 
to the contract, but nailed down, the board overlapping one 
another, this shall remain thus as an offset against the extra work 
that has been done according to the written report. The court 
further condemn the plaintiff to pay the costs of the suit and 
order the defendant, as soon as the aforesaid work shall have 
been done, promptly to pay the stipulated wages. 

Resolved to draw an order on the honorable treasurers here 
in favor of the carpenter, Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, in the 
sum of two hundred guilders to be deducted from the amount 
which he has asked for making the two bridges here in 
Beverwyck. 

The court of Fort Orange and Beverwyck on the safe arrival 
here of the Hon. Director General and the Hon. Nicasius Sille, 
have deemed it necessary and proper to submit to their honors 
the following request, which was this day delivered to their 
honors : 



^^ A window with three lights, the lower sashes swinging in or out, 
and the upper one being stationary. 



124 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

That this court, [110] from experience, for reasons herein- 
after stated, can (subject to correction) come to no other con- 
clusion than that they are forced to request that the bench of 
Justice of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, which until now has 
been allowed to continue in the place where it was accustomed 
to meet, may be removed and ordered to [hold court] outside 
of this jurisdiction or the established limits. 

For it is evident that they have caused the minister, Gidion 
Schaets, to announce and serve public notice in the church stand- 
ing in this jurisdiction that all the inhabitants of this as well of 
their jurisdiction who had any charges to bring against the per- 
son of Brant van Slichtenhorst must make them known and 
plead before their bench of justice, on pain of keeping for ever 
silent, and that without regard of persons, whoever they might 
be, which can not be understood otherwise as to include also 
(with all due respect) your honors and the respective members 
of this court. 

How impudent this is, your honors can [readily see], it being 
contrary to your honors' express written orders and command 
given almost two years ago to those of the colony, when this 
bench of justice was erected and established, we on our side, 
according to our bounden duty, having never attempted to treat 
the court of the colony in any other than a friendly way, saving 
the privileges of each, nor sought to be with the court of the 
colony aforesaid on any other terms than those of love and 
friendship, the two jurisdictions mutually respecting each other's 
rights. 

[Praying therefore,] that it may be ordered and decreed that 
all persons residing in this jurisdiction may (saving the right of 
appeal) be summoned only before this bench of justice, without 
regard of persons. 

And whereas those of the colony judge [otherwise, that] all, 
or such as have taken the oath to the patroon, who at present 
reside in this jurisdiction and who intend to remain there, may 
be ordered, whenever the occasion may require it, to plead their 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 125 

causes before this bench and to stand trial here, after being 
legally cited or otherwise summoned to appear, if need be. 

That the same, when residing in this jurisdiction, [111] may 
also be bound to take the common burgher oath, or in case of 
refusal be ordered to depart, since without it they can not be 
deemed or adjudged otherwise than in contempt. An example 
whereof was seen by this court in the person of Brant van 
Slichtenhorst who, having been three times legally cited to appear 
in court by a private person of this jurisdiction, gave for answer 
that this court had no jurisdiction over him, as he had taken the 
oath to the patroon. 

And if the court of justice of the colony should remain where 
it is, this can only tend to the great prejudice of this court, as 
they daily make the inhabitants of this jurisdiction believe that 
there is to be a change and that, being returned under the jurisdic- 
tion of the patroon, they will be regarded as perjurers, in conse- 
quence of which the inhabitants here can not be held as well as 
they should to their bounden duty and obedience, but become 
refractory and on the contrary forget the respect which they owe 
this court. 

The colony extends far and wide and between the farms 
established by the patroon there are still many lands which are 
not yet bought or occupied by the patroon or his subjects, but 
are cultivated by the natives themselves, to the great prejudice 
of this country; for the savages being allowed to plant them, 
they imagine after a time that they belong to them and there- 
after use the lands as their own, to the great loss and detriment 
not only of the inhabitants, but also of the land itself, which 
otherwise might be bought, paid for and cultivated by the 
inhabitants, to the great convenience of themselves and conse- 
quently of the country. It is therefore requested that these lands, 
which have not yet been purchased of the natives, may by order 
of your honors be bought, paid for and occupied and cultivated 
by the private inhabitants, according to your honor's pleasure 
and with your consent. 



126 Fort Orange and BeverwycJi 

As on the 8th of April next three of the magistrates will have 
been for two years in consecutive service and the term which 
they agreed to serve will therefore expire and the time arrive for 
others to take their places, we have below nominated a [112] 
double number of five persons, from whom three are to be chosen 
by your honors to fill the vacancies. 

Abraham Staets 

Volckert Jansz V left the service last year 

Jan Labatie 

Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herpertsen 
Cornelis Theunisz 

Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhoren 
Jan Thomasz 



whose time expired on the 8 th of April 
► have served one year 



Nomination of four to complete the number of twelve, or to 
serve as magistrates: 

Pieter Hartgers is one of the twelve 
Frans Barentsz 
Sander Leendertsen 
Gerrit Jansz from Swoll 
Adriaen Jansz from Leyden 

The rest of what this court has to propose and to request, they 
request permission to propose orally, whereupon they expect your 
honors' favorable apostil. 

Your honors' very obedient and 
Fort Orange, faithful [servants], the commissary 

March 16, 1654 and magistrates of Fort Orange and 

Beverwyck. 

Delivered this day to the honorable gentlemen and signed by 
all the members of this court. After some verbal questions had 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 127 

. been asked of their honors, orders were given to put them into 
writing and to deliver [the petition] to their honors, which was 
done, the contents or tenor being as follows : 

To the Hon. Director General Peter Stuyvesant 

and the Hon. Nicasius Sille 
Shew with due reverence to your honors. Commissary Joannes 
Dyckman and the magistrates [113] of the Court of Fort 
Orange and Beverwyck, that they, the petitioners, find by experi- 
ence that notwithstanding the placards that have been issued, 
whereby all tapsters residing in this jurisdiction are required to 
pay the regular and appointed tapsters' excise on wine, beer 
and distilled liquors which they tap, retail or sell, in such way 
as the ordinance provides, the wine, beer and distilled liquors 
are not entered as they should be, but that much smuggling is 
going on and that the burghers here have to pay the tax put 
by the tapsters on the aforesaid liquors, whether they smuggle 
and thereby pay no excise, or not. The petitioners, therefore, 
would not be surprised if, in order to prevent the smuggling in 
the future, it were better to have the excise on beer, wine and 
distilled liquors publicly farmed out to the highest bidder, and 
left to the farmer first for a year and thereafter for longer, 
according to your honors' pleasure and decision, provided that 
the tapsters of the heavy beer and wines, before they are allowed 
to have these carried or brought into their houses or cellars, must 
obtain from the appointed collector, or farmer, or farmers, of 
the excise a proper certificate that they have paid the excise, and 
furthermore that every burgher must also get a similar certificate 
from the collector or farmer of the [excise on] beer, wine and 
distilled liquors, without however having to pay any excise, but 
only the fee for writing the certificate, under the penalty to be 
provided by your honors. 

It is furthermore to be considered whether in the future those 
of the colony ought not to pay the established tapsters' excise 
as well as the tapsters in this jurisdiction, who complain that 



128 Fort Orange and Bevern>})ck 

they sell their beer, wine and distilled liquors as cheap as those 
of the colony, notwithstanding the fact that they must pay the 
excise and in addition must do guard duty, as they [114] did 
last year, from which those of the colony are exempt, which 
they consider to be of benefit to the colony as well as to this 
jurisdiction. Also that they are bound, together with the other 
burghers of this jurisdiction, to bear the extraordinary charges 
for the maintenance of bridges, etc., which however are used 
also by the residents of the colony, yes, even had to help build 
up and fortify this fort, although in times of need it would 
serve as a place of refuge for those of the colony, as v/ell as for 
themselves and other burghers, and other such like reasons. 

Upon the complaint of the burghers here, the petitioners find 
and have daily experienced that the bakers do not act in good 
faith in the matter of baking bread for the burghers, but bolt 
the flour from the meal and sell it greatly to their profit to the 
savages for the baking of sweet cake, white bread, cookies and 
pretzels, so that the burghers must buy and get largely bran for 
their money, and even then the bread is frequently found to be 
short of weight, and they ask one guilders, yes, as much as 24 
stivers for such poor and short-weight baked bread. Which the 
petitioners in the interest of this community have thought it 
necessary to bring to your honors' attention, in order that in the 
future your honors may provide herein as you shall see fit, in 
the interest of the community here and especially of the plain 
and common people, who can not bake themselves, so that if 
this continues the Christians must eat the bran while the savages 
eat the flour; [praying therefore] that a proper weight and a 
price for the sale of proper bread may be set. 

Whereas the people here, at Katskill, Esopus and elsewhere 
are very short of schepel measures, whether whole, half, or quar- 
ter schepels, to measure grain and other commodities, your 
honors are requested to be pleased to order a reasonable quantity 
from patria to supply the people therewith [115], provided that 
every one who receives one is to pay for it. Otherwise, one 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 129 

person and another measuring with a little tub or keg, great dis- 
putes are likely to be caused and to arise among the people. 

Furthermore, as the petitioners are often compelled to take 
off time to attend to the duties of this, their accepted office, to 
the great loss and detriment of themselves and the public service, 
they request your honors to be pleased to authorize that each 
of the magistrates during the term of his service or office be given 
a yearly salary at the discretion and pleasure of your honors, 
the same to be paid out of the excise, the general or other funds. 

Expecting hereupon your honors' favorable apostil, they are 
and will remain. 

Your honors obedient and faithful servants, the 
magistrates of the court of Fort Orange and 
Beverwyck. 

Fort Orange, this 1 7th 
of March 1654. 

Delivered this day to their honors, signed by all the members 
of this court. Received for answer that the written order and 
answer to this and the preceding petition would be sent at the 
first opportunity from the Manathans. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herperts 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



130 Fort Orange and Beverrv^c^ 

[116] Tuesday. March 31. 1654 
Present: 

Omnes 

Jacob Luyersen, being summoned by the court to pay to the 
treasurers the fifty guilders levied on every house pursuant to 
the resolution, has requested eight days' grace, v^hich are granted 
him, when he must promptly pay the aforesaid sum to the 
treasurers. 

Roeloff Jansz and Jacob Gerritsz, who have leased the house 
of Cornelis Theunisz for the unpaid half [of the tax], are 
ordered to pay each one half as required. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Jochem Becker and 
Jacob Willemsen de Wolff, defendants, on account of assault 
and battery by Jochem Becker upon Jacob Willemsz de Wolff 
at his house on the last of February preceding. 

The court having heard the statements of both sides and 
also examined the evidence, it is resolved to condemn Jochem 
Becker to pay a fine of thirty guilders to the officer here within 
the space of forty-eight hours, on pain of execution and to order 
the aforesaid Becker, as is done hereby, to leave his neighbor, 
the aforesaid Jacob Willemsz, and all others henceforth unmo- 
lested and in peace, on pain of arbitrary correction. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Dirrick Bensingh, 
defendant, on account of abusive words spoken to the surveyors, 
which being further investigated by the court, it is decided to 
condemn him to pay a fine of twelve guilders to the officer before 
sundown. 

Jan Thomasz, as attorney for Claes Thysz Cnyver, plaintiff, 
against Willem Albertsen from Monickendan, defendant, about 
the delivery of some casks to the value of fl. 1 44 :-, to be paid 
in grain or beavers. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, [117] it is resolved to condemn the defendant to pay the 
sum of fl. 144:- demanded by plaintiff, within the space of six 
weeks, on pain of execution. Also, that meanwhile the defend- 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 131 

ant is not to depart from here without giving proper security for 
the payment aforesaid, provided that whatever the defendant 
has paid on account shall be deducted from the aforesaid sum. 

Dirck Bensingh, having appeared before the court, requests 
a strip of ground in the rear of his lot. The magistrates, or some 
of them, are requested to make an inspection of the same. 

Jacob Luyersen is notified that he must file his answer to the 
written complaint of the officer, sent to his house by order of 
the court, on or before the next court day, subject to the penalty 
provided. 

It is resolved to have Lambert van Valckenburgh summoned 
to appear in court on account of the things done or committed 
by him last Wednesday two weeks ago at the house of Gerrit 
Jansz from Swoll, together with the witnesses who were present. 

The request of Philip Pietersz Scheuler to enlarge his lot on 
the hill somewhat is granted, the president and Andries Her- 
pertsz and Jacob Schermerhoren being appointed a committee 
to show him how far [he may go]. 

Albert Andriesz appearing in court complains that besides 
the boards received by him from Merten Herpertsz from 
de Hulter's lot, there is due to him fl.70:3:12. Resolved to 
summon Merten Herpertsz to appear on the next court day to 
see if Mr de Hulter can not spare some more boards. 

Resolved to draw the following orders on the treasurers for 
materials delivered to this fort and for wages: 

To the carpenters, in the sum of fl. 128:10, in settlement of 
an account of fl.242:- 

Albert Andriesz, for 116 boards @ 24 stivers, fl.l39:4:- 

Also to Rut Jacopsz for boards delivered, per account to be 

^"°^°- Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herperts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerho[oren] 
Cornelus Thonise[n] 
Jan Thomasz 



132 Fort Orange and Bevenvy^ck 

[118] Extraordinary Session, Thursday, April 2, 1654 

Present: 

Omnes dempto Cornelis Theunisz 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Claes van den 
Hoogen Bergh, defendant, about fighting of the defendant and 
Juriaen Theunisz on Shrove Tuesday at the house of Juriaen 
Theunisz. According to the declaration made by Juriaen 
Theunisz before this court on the third of March, the defendant 
came into his house drunk and assaulted and beat him. 

The court having heard the declarations and arguments ot 
both parties, order the defendant to pay a fine of sixty guilders, 
once, within the space of twenty-four hours, and not to go out- 
side the limits [of this jurisdiction] until he has paid, on pain of 
further punishment. This covers also the abusive and threaten- 
ing language addressed by the defendant to one of the members 
of this court while still in session, to wit, that if he, the defend- 
ant, had him in another place, he would teach him differently, 
etc. 

Theunis Dirrixsz, appearing in court, requests that. Rut 
Arentsz, tailor, having died, he may undertake the settlement 
of the estate of the deceased, provided that this court nominate 
and appoint two curators besides him. 

The matter being taken into consideration, the appearer*s 
request is granted, he being accepted and appointed as curator 
and the Hon. Rutger Jacopsz and Goosen Gerritsz being asso- 
ciated with him, the three of them as curators to settle the estate 
of the aforesaid deceased as best they can and in due time to 
render a proper accounting thereof to this court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herperts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 133 

[119] Tuesday. April 21. 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempio Rutger Jacopsz 

Marritgen Claes' daughter, plaintiff, against RoeloflF Jacopsz. 
defendant, about an anker of brandy furnished by plaintiff to the 
defendant and money advanced to him. 

The defendant's wife, appearing, says that the plaintiff sold 
two ankers of brandy to the defendant, of which to her knowl- 
edge she had one taken out of the cellar again, notwithstanding 
it had already been entered. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments of both 
parties, condemn the defendant to pay the plaintiff within the 
space of three days nine whole, good, merchantable beavers, 
leaving it to the choice of the plaintiff to deliver the other or 
second anker of brandy to the defendant and to receive ten 
beavers for the said anker and the money advanced, or, in case 
of failure to deliver said anker, to receive nine beavers. And in 
case the payment does not take place within the aforesaid time, 
it is ordered to proceed to peremptory execution. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Sibbinck, plaintiff, against Jacob Adriaen- 
sen, wheelwright, defendant, for ten beavers for wages earned 
on the house in which the defendant dwells. 

Defendant's first default. 

The Hon. Andries Herpertsz and Jacob Jansz Schermer- 
horen are appointed to lay out for Jaco'b Hendrixsz Sibbinck a 
garden next to the garden of Gillis Pietersz. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Hendrick Biermans, 
defendant, for assault and battery. 

Defendant's first default. 

Pieter Bronck, for himself as well as for Anker Brynsen and 
Lourens Lourensen, asks for six months* extension of time with- 
out having to pay any fines [for not building] on the lots granted 
to them in Beverwyck, because they can not get nails and for 
other reasons. Their request is granted. 



134 Fori Orange and Beverw^ck 

[120] Jacob Luyersz being summoned by the court on 
account of previous misdemeanors, the court for various rea- 
sons them thereunto moving have resolved to pardon the afore- 
said person with reference to the misdemeanor committed by him 
and the hereinbefore mentioned abusive words spoken to the 
officer. 

The defendant appearing in court has begged forgiveness and 
stated that he knows nothing of the commissary and Officer 
Dyckman and his wife but what is honorable and virtuous. He 
is condemned however for assault committed on the public street 
to pay the officer at once a fine of 25 guilders, for the benefit of 
Officer Dyckman. 

Joannes Withart, plaintiff, against Volckert Jansz and Pieter 
Hartgers, defendants, about payment for goods left in the year 
1652 by Evert Tesselaer in the hands of the defendants. 

Parties are referred to referees, Commissary Dyckman, Arent 
van Curler, Jan Baptista van Rensselaer and Anthonis de 
Hooges, to agree on such terms as they can, the referees to 
report their findings to this court. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Andries Herperts 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Cornelus Thonisen 
Jan Thomasz 

[121] Tuesday, April 28. 1654 
Present: 

Omnes 

Jacob Hendrixsz Sibbinck, plaintiff, against Jacob Adriaen- 
sen, wheelwright, defendant, about ten beavers which are due 
to the plaintiff from the defendant for wages earned on the 
defendant's house sold to Cornelis Segertsen. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 135 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid ten 
beavers to the plaintiff promptly on the first of May, which pay- 
ment is to be made out of the first term of payment of the pur- 
chase money of the house, without any gainsay. 

Jacob Jansz Schermerhooren, plaintiff, against Jacob Adri- 
aense, wheelwright, defendant, for fl. 1 1 8 : 1 3 :-, which the 
defendant owes to Elysbet Cornelis, of whom he has a power 
of attorney to collect the aforesaid money. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the afore- 
said fl.l 18:13:- in the following instalments, to wit, fl.50:- out 
of the first payment of the purchase money of the house sold 
by him to Cornelis Segertsen and the balance until the payment 
in full of the aforesaid sum out of the second payment, promptly, 
without any exceptions. 

Claes Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Brant van Slichtenhorst, 
defendant, for 20 beavers of the defendant in the hands of the 
Hon. Rutger Jacopsz, attached by the plaintiff. 

Defendant's first default. 

Goosen Gerritsen, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, for 
fl. 75:8:8-, entered here for the sake of notification. 

[122] Jan Witthardt, plaintiff, against Pieter Hartgers and 
Volckert Hansz, defendant, about a claim for goods left by 
Evert Tesselaer in the hands of the defendants. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, order that the defendants may retain the sum of fifty 
guilders out of the plaintiff's moneys in their hands, which has 
regard to the money advanced and expenses incurred on the side 
of the defendants during the litigation carried on by the con- 
tracting parties in Holland, upon condition that in case the plain- 
tiff, or his principals there, are condemned to pay the costs of 
the suit, they shall have and receive therefor the aforesaid sum. 
But in case it hereafter turns out to be otherwise and the defend- 
ants have definite advice and proof that the plaintiff is not con- 
demned there in the costs aforesaid, the defendants shall be 



136 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

bound, instead of the fifty guilders which they retained, to pay 
promptly to the plaintiff or the authorized agents of Evert 
Tesselaer one hundred guilders, upon proof and evidence as 
aforesaid. Furthermore, the defendants are ordered to satisfy 
and pay immediately and promptly to the plaintiff the balance 
of the money for the goods w^hich were left by Tesselaer in the 
custody of the defendants. 

Gerrit Jansz from Swoll being summoned by the court to 
give testimony to the truth in regard to the dispute which took 
place at his house between Andries Herpertsen and Lambert 
van Valckenborgh at the time of the departure of the Hon. Gen- 
eral, the defendant's second default [is entered against him] . 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Hendrick Bierman, 
defendant, for assault and battery. 

Defendant's second default. 

Commissary Dyckman is ordered by the court to pay to 
Willem Albertsen from Monickendam, instead of fl. 108: which 
he owes him, eighty-eight guilders precisely within the space of 
fourteen days, and this on account of some abusive language 
addressed to the commissary according to the affidavits exhibited; 
he, Willem Albertsz, declaring before this court that he knows 
nothing further about the said commissary but what is honorable 
and virtuous. 

[123] A petition was read of Anthonio de Hooges, demand- 
ing payment by Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, first, of fl.228:- 
for boards delivered by his father-in-law, Albert Andriesz; sec- 
ondly, also by Jacob Adriaensen, of the sum of 35 beavers due 
to Jan Tjebkens Schellinger for merchandise delivered by said 
Schellinger to Jacob Adriaensen, according to the note, the peti- 
tioner being authorized to receive both sums aforesaid. 

Jacob Adriaensen admits before this court that he owes both 
of said sums and whereas said de Hooges requests that payment 
be made put of the first payment on the house sold by Jacob 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 137 

Adriaensen to Cornelis Segertsen,"^ it is decided and ordered 
that the said payment shall be made in two terms, to wit, the 
half of both amounts out of the first payment and the remaining 
half out of the second payment which Jacob Adriaensen is to 
receive for the aforesaid house. 

And as regards the said de Hooges's third request contained 
in this petition, to have added to his lot one and a half rods, 
extending south and north, which according to his ground brief 
it was heretofore measured short, the same is granted him. 

It is decided to have Merten Herpertsen, mason, summoned 
to appear on the next court day to answer various complaints on 
the part of his creditors. 

Robbert Vastrick, in the name of his brother, Gerrit Vastrick, 
demands of Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, for merchandise 
delivered, according to his note of hand, the sum of fl.379:— , 
of which he, Jacob Adriaensen, has paid four beavers on account. 

Jacob Adriaensen acknowledges the aforesaid debt. 

Robbert Vastrick demands payment out of the first payment 
for the house sold by Jacob Adriaensen to Cornelis Segertsen. 

The court condemns and orders Jacob Adriaensen, wheel- 
wright, to pay the aforesaid fl.379:-, less four beavers, as fol- 
lows, to wit: one hundred guilders before the departure of the 
returning ships sailing from here for patria and the balance out 
of the second payment to be received for the house sold by him, 
according to the contract made. 

[124] An order drawn on the treasurers in favor of Goosen 
Gerritsz, in the sum of fl.6:10:-, for 13 lbs. of nails delivered 
for the fort. 

Cornelis Segertsen having a claim of fl.4l :10 against Jacob 
Adriaensen, wheelwright, asks permission to deduct this from 
the first payment for the house purchased by him, which is 
granted. And in order that the receipt and distribution or pay- 
ment to the creditors of Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, may 



^^ In the margin is written: " TTie attachment of the money is declared 
valid." 



138 



Fort Orange and Bevern>^c^ 



proceed more orderly, the honorable magistrates, Andries Her- 
pertsen and Jan Thomasz, are appointed and charged therewith. 
Carsten, living with the Hon. Jan Thomasz, is for the present 
excused from paying the fine for his lot in Beverwyck due on 
the first of May. 

Joannes Dyckman 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herperts 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

CORNELUS ThONISEN 

Jan Thomasz 



Friday, May 30, 1654 [April 30, 1654] 

Present: 

J: Dyckman 
J: Vei'beeck 



J: Schermerhoren 
J: Thomasz 



A: Herpertsen 
C: Thonisz 



R: Jacopsz 



Willem Fredrixsz Bout is hereby ordered to take his choice, 
either, as soon as this is shown to him, to stop furnishing imported 
beer to retailers, or to stop tapping; also not to lay in large 
quantities of small beer in his house ; he, Willem Fredrixsz, being 
ordered to give his answer to the court messenger upon the exhibi- 
tion hereof and to state which of the two things according to 
the custom of Holland he intends to and will do, the court mes- 
senger to note the statement or answer hereon and to make his 
return thereof on the next court day. 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh is ordered to begin the bridge 
across the third kill within eight days and to proceed with the 
work until completed; and in case he does not comply herewith, 
the contract shall again be let by the court at the said Vosburgh's 
own expense and charge. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 139 

[125] According to the communication from the Hon. Gen- 
eral and the Supreme Council in regard to the nomination of 
officers made by this court, there have been chosen this day, in 
the place of the retiring magistrates, Rutger Jacopsz, Andries 
Herpertsz and Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck, whose term 
of office has expired, the Hon. Sander Leendertsen, Pieter 
Hertgers and Frans Barentsz Pastoors, who being summoned 
to come into court have taken the following oath of fidelity 
before the commissary: 

We, the undersigned, Sander Leendertsen, Pieter Hartgers 
and Frans Barentsen, in the capacity of magistrates and judges 
of the bench of justice of Fort Orange and Beverwyck, promise 
and swear in the presence of Almighty God and our fellow 
brethren that we shall help to do true equity and justice between 
man and man and further in all matters to promote and assist 
the administration of justice and the government according to 
the best of our knowledge and ability ; also, that we shall in every 
way conduct ourselves loyally and faithfully toward the Hon. 
States General of the United Netherlands, the Hon. Directors 
and Masters of this New Netherland province and the Hon. 
Director General and Council residing at New Amsterdam; 
with the further promise that we shall help to maintain here the 
Reformed Religion according to the Word of God and the 
regulations of the Synod of Dordrecht and not to tolerate pub- 
licly any sect, all in the best interest of this jurisdiction and 
community. So truly help us God Almighty. 

The honorable retiring or former magistrates, Rutger Jacopsz, 
Andries Herpertsz and Cornelis Theunisz, are duly discharged 
from their oath and most highly thanked for their honors' former 
good fellowship and the good service rendered to the company 
and to the public. 



140 Fort Orange and Beverrvy^ck 

[126] Tuesday, May 5. 1654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman San: Leendertsen J: Schermerhoren 

J: Thomasz F: Barentsen P: Hergers 

J: Verbeeck 

Rutger Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Willem Albertsen from 
Monickendam, defendant, about fl.35 :- for beer delivered. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the aforesaid fl.35:—, 
or the sum demanded, to the plaintiff within the time of six weeks, 
on pain of execution. 

Rutger Jacopsz requests to have a garden to go with the 
house which he intends to build within a short time on his lot 
next to his dwelling house, which request is granted. And as to 
the request of Leendert Philipsz, the Hon. Magistrates Jacob 
Schermerhoren and Sander Leendertsen are appointed a com- 
mittee [to consider the matter]. 

Willem Albertsen appearing before the court acknowledges 
that he is satisfied by Rutger Jacopsz for two months' hire of 
his yacht, leased for the service of the Hon. General. 

Hendrick Driesz,^* plaintiff, against Jochem Becker, defend- 
ant, for shooting plaintiff's dog three days ago on the public 
street. 

Parties have compromised before this court, the defendant 
offering to have a young dog trained with others and when 
trained to deliver it to the plaintiff in the place of the dog that 
was killed ; but as the deed was done in the public street and the 
plaintiff's dog was killed, the officer is allowed one beaver, which 
the defendant is to pay within twenty-four hours. 

Hendrick Driess, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsen, mason, 
defendant, for fl.200:-, which defendant is alleged to owe 
plaintiff according to the note exhibited. 



Hendrick Andriessen, from Doesburg. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 141 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt, which is entered 
here only for the purpose of notification. 

Jan van Twiller, appearing for Gerrit Vastrick, has exhibited 
a note of Merten Herpertsen in the sum of fl.449:-, which the 
said Herpertsen admits he owes. 

[127] Willem Albertsen from Monickendam, plaintiff, 
against Pieter Bronck, or Eldert de Goyer, defendants. 

Defendant's first default. 

The commissary, plaintiff, against Hendrick Biermans, 
defendant, for assault and battery. 

The defendant declares that he knows nothing about it. Case 
adjourned until some other time. Meanwhile, the commissary 
is to make further inquiry. 

Jochem Becker is ordered to sheet the [bank of the] kill on 
the side of Jan Labatie, as far as he, Becker, has dug it up, 
provided that the small corner of land provisionally added to 
his lot, to wit, Labatie's, shall be left until further order of this 
court, an extract from this record to be sent to the homes of 
both of them to regulate themselves accordingly. 

Merten Herpertsen acknowledges that he owes the following 
amounts: 



Gabriel Leendertsen 


fl.l8:- 


Hendrick Jochemsz 


fl.80:- 


Dirrick Jansz Kroon, acording to 




obligation 


fl.27: (beavers) 


Volckert Jansz 


fl.3l:- 


Pieter Hartgers, for beer delivered. 




that is to say, a beaver coat 




delivered 


fl.32:- 


Sander Leendertsen, for nails 


fl.l7:3:- 



142 Fort Orange and Beverrv])ck 

Willem Fredrixsz coming into court requests permission to 
continue the wholesale trade in beer, on condition that he will 
not lay in any beer in his house, other than that which is used 
for tapping and will enter this each time. It is decided that he 
may provisionally do so on that basis, provided that the beer 
which he does not tap, he must have the people themselves fetch 
from the brewery and that he may in no way take in or lay in 
any small beer in his house. 

Claes Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Mr Brant van Slichtenhorst, 
defendant, about 20 beavers due by defendant, attached by 
plaintiff in the hands of Rutger Jacopsz. 

The plaintiff, appearing, submits a copy of a certain judgment 
given or pronounced by the Hon. Director General and the 
Supreme Council of New Netherland under date of July 19, 
1652, whereby it appears that the defendant [128] on his third 
default of appearance was condemned at the Manathans by the 
Hon. General and the Supreme Council aforesaid to return the 
peltries and goods which he had taken out of the plaintiff's chest, 
or the value thereof. 

It is decided by this court that if the defendant has any objec- 
tion to make against this, he may appear in person on the next 
court day, the plaintiff declaring that he intends to have the 
defendant for the third time legally summoned to appear at that 
time. 

The commissary and president of this court is this day 
appointed to examine and look over the account of the collector, 
Pieter Ryverdingh, and to make a report of his findings. 

Interrogatories upon which this court is to examine Volckgen 
Jan's daughter, the wife of Jan Fransz van Hoesem, and 
Jan Bembo, a soldier. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



143 



Of competent age. 



A 



nswer 



, Yes. 



A 



nswer 



, Yes. 



How old they are? 

Whether the evening before 
the Hon. General came up 
here, the commissary did not 
come to the house of Jan van 
Hoesem? 

Whether the commissary, 
coming there, did not find a 
party of drunken savages? 

Whether among them there 
was not a savage who sat and 
drank good beer? 

Whether they know where 
it was obtamed, that is to say, 
the good beer? 

How large was the can? 

Whether the commissary did 
not give the savage twelve sti- 
vers to have the can filled 
again? 

Whether they did not taste 
whether it was black beer? Answer, Yes. 

[129] Resolved that Sander Leendertsen, Willem Bout, 
Jan Machielsz, Jan Hendrixsz and Herman Bastiaensen shall 
build a convenient bridge in the road across the sewer which 
they have dug together. Also, that they must do so at the first 
opportunity, under the penalty to be provided, as otherwise it 
tends to obstruct the public road 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jacob Schermerhooren 
Jan Thomasz 
Sander Lenrsen 

PlETER HeRTGERTSZ 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Answer, Yes. 

Answer, From the house of 
Willem Bout. 

Answer, a mengel can. 



Answer, Yes. 



144 Fort Orange and Beveriv^cli 

Tuesday, May 12, 1654 
Present: 
Omnes 

Willem Fredrixsz, plaintiff, against Rutger Jacobsz, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff appearing much intoxicated before the court is 
ordered to depart. 

Jan van Hoesem, plaintiff, against Merten Herpertsen, mason, 
defendant, for fl.52:8:-, which the defendant owes plaintiff. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt, which serves here 
by way of notification. 

Jan Labatie is ordered to return at the first opportunity the 
ten barrels of lime and the 1 600 bricks which he borrowed from 
the commissary, which he agrees to do accordingly. 

Jan Labatie, plaintiff, against Gillis Pietersz, defendant, about 
the purchase of plaintiff's house at the Manathans, sold by the 
defendant for the plaintiff, and some nails left by the plaintiff 
in the defendant's hands, requesting a proper accounting of both. 

The defendant says that he rendered an accounting at the 
Manathans in the presence of the purchaser of the house. 
[130] The defendant undertakes further at the first opportunity 
to write about the account to the Manathans, so as to be able 
to make an accounting of one thing and another in proper form. 

It is decided to give the defendant four weeks' time from this 
date and if within that time no accounting is made by the 
defendant, the plaintiff may apply to this court, when further 
action will be taken in the matter complained of. 

Claes Gerritsen, plaintiff, against Mr Brant van Slichtenhorst, 
defendant, about 20 beavers due by the defendant attached by 
the plaintiff in the hands of Rutger Jacobsz. 

Defendant's third default. 

The court orders Rutger Jacopsz to let the plaintiff have the 
20 beavers and to satisfy him, upon sufficient security, in accord- 
ance with the judgment rendered by the Hon. General and the 
Supreme Council. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 145 

Symon Groot is ordered to build within two months upon the 
lot that has been granted to him, on pain of having to pay the 
full fine. 

Symon Groot, on account of Jan Peeck, demands of Merten, 
the mason, fl.61 :- according to the account. 

Merten, the mason, admits the aforesaid debt. Entered here 
[by way of memorandum] . 

Pieter Lot is given until [Amsterdam] fair^^ to build upon 
the lot granted to him. In case he does not build by that time, 
he shall pay the full fine and because he has not yet begun, he 
must pay one beaver to the officer. 

Hendrick Gerritsen is to pay two beavers for not having built 
upon his lot. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Sibbinck likewise two beavers. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Sibbinck is granted a garden, adjoining on 
the west Gillis Pietersen, on the north Pieter Hartgers, on the 
east the wagon road and on the south the cripple bush, in length 
7 1/2 rods and in breadth on the north side 4 rods and 1 feet 
and on the south side 4 rods. 

Wynant Gerritsen is ordered tc pay a fine of fl.25 :- to the 
officer for not having built upon his lot and fl.6:- for having 
fought; to be paid within 48 hours. 

Luykas Pietersz fl.25 :- for not having built upon his lot, to 
be paid within 48 hours. 

[131] Machiel Ryckertsen is condemned to pay four guilders 
to the officer for having last day of prayer sat drinking at the 
house of Jacob Luyersen during divine service. 

Gabriel Leendertsen is ordered to hold back fl.25 out of the 
money which he must pay Lourens Jansz on account of the pur- 
chase of the house and to pay this to the officer because Lourens 
Jansz has not fenced in his garden. 

Resolved that the gardens which have been laid out shall this 
afternoon be distributed by lot or otherwise to those who have 
made request therefor. 

^■^ September 23d. 



146 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh being summoned by the commis- 
sary and officer to appear in court to settle as far as possible the 
disputes which have arisen among the burghers on account of 
the faulty surve3ang and also on account of some gardens which 
without the knowledge of this court are being fenced in or have 
been granted away, the said Vosburgh is ordered to deliver in 
to this court his surveyor's book, which he, Vosburgh, said he 
would consider doing. However, it is decided that the court 
messenger shall immediately go with the said Vosburgh to his 
house, he, Vosburgh being ordered to give the aforesaid book 
to the court messenger; but as the court messenger reports to this 
court the said Vosburgh's unwillingness in this matter, it is 
decided for the second time and per superabundance to send the 
court messenger to him, Vosburgh, with the same order as afore- 
said. The said messenger reporting for the second time [Vos- 
burgh's] unwillingness, it is resolved that tomorrow, upon his 
refusal to deliver the aforesaid surveyor's book kept by him, the 
officer shall take him into custody until further order of this 
court. 

Upon the request of Elysabet Cornelis' daughter, the Hon. 
Pieter Hertgerts, together with the Hon. Jacob Schermerhoren 
and the Hon. Cornelis Segertsen are appointed guardians of the 
two children left by Gysbert Cornelisz, deceased. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

Jan Thomasz 

Sander Lenrsen 

Pieter Hertgerts 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 147 

[132] Tuesday. May 19. 1654 
Present: 

J : Dyckman Sander Leendertsen J : Scliermerhoren 

J: Thomasz Frans Barentsz Pastoors Pieter Hertgerts 
J: Verbeeck 

Willem Fredrixsz, plaintiff, against Rutger Jacopsz, defend- 
ant, about a barrel of beer or twenty guilders which defendant 
claims to have delivered to plaintiff upon mutual settlement of 
accounts and execution of a general receipt for beer delivered 
by defendant to the plaintiff. 

Plaintiff denies this and refers to the receipt executed and 
signed jointly by the defendant and Goosen Gerritsen. 

Plaintiff is ordered to produce the aforesaid receipt in court 
together with the delivery book of the defendant, in order that 
the date, etc., may serve as evidence and the judgment of this 
court in the case may thereupon follow. 

Leendert Philipsz being summoned to appear in court in 
regard to the lot granted to him and the officer's claim that it has 
not been built upon within the appointed time, the defendant, 
appearing, claims that the person of Herman Bastiaensen gave 
him permission to delay. Decided that Herman Bastiaensen 
shall be summoned to appear on the next court day together with 
his opponent. 

Isaac Allerton, plaintiff, against Thomas Sandertsen, smith, 
defendant. 

Plaintiff dem.ands of defendant fl. 1 95 :- according to the note 
signed by him. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt and promises to pay 
the plaintiff through Jan van Aecken out of the first payment 
for the house sold by him, [paying] to him or the aforesaid 
van Aecken, first the sum of one hundred guilders and a year 
later the balance, being fl.95 :-. to the plaintiff or his agent and 
substitute here. 

The court having heard the statements on both sides and found 
that the parties are satisfied therewith, order that the said agree- 
ment shall be strictly carried out by the defendant, on pain, etc. 



148 Fort Orange and Beverw^cJ^ 

[133] Whereas it is found by experience and brought to the 
attention of this court that some of the inhabitants of this juris- 
diction venture to sail in canoes, rowboats, or other vessels from 
here to the Esopus and Kats[k]il plain to sell brandy or liquor 
to the savages along the way, or at the aforesaid places, to the 
considerable detriment of the good inhabitants there, it is decided 
to have notices posted that no one residing within this jurisdiction 
and consequently belonging thereto shall be allowed to sail 
thither from here in any rowboats, canoes or other vessels with- 
out having the same inspected here by the officer and without 
having obtained proper consent to go thither from and in the 
name of this court, on pain of forfeiture by those who shall be 
found to have acted contrary hereto of the sum of fifty guilders 
for each offense for the benefit of the officer here. 

Willem Fredrixsz Bout being summoned to appear in court 
on account of the sale of strong beer to the savages, the court, 
having also examined the affidavits and informations secured by 
the officer for that purpose, condemn the defendant to pay a fine 
of twenty-five guilders for the benefit of the officer, with costs, 
to be paid within 48 hours. 

Merten Herpertsz, mason, being summoned to appear in court 
by the following persons, acknowledges that he is well and truly 
indebted to them as follows: 

Willem Fredrixsz fl. 21 1 :— 

Jacob Jansz Stoll 1 80 :— 

To Lourens Lourensen, twenty-six good, merchantable 
beavers, which is entered here by way of memorandum. 

Jacob Jansz Plodder, having failed to build upon his lot 
granted to him in Beverwyck within the proper and specified 
time, is condemned to pay a fine of sixteen guilders for the benefit 
of the officer. 

[134] Eldert Gerbertsen, because he has failed to inclose 
the lot that was granted to him within the proper and specified 
lime, is condemned to pay within 48 hours a fine of ten guilders 
for the benefit of the officer. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 149 

Geertruyt Jeronimus, being summoned to appear in court on 
account of some abusive and slanderous words spoken and 
addressed to the members of this court that were present, the 
first default is entered against her. 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh being summoned to appear in 
court to show why he does not begin and complete the bridge 
across the second kill, according to the contract made by him, 
has brought forward some reasons for excuse. However, the 
appearer is ordered to begin the aforesaid work during the com- 
ing Whitsuntide and then to complete it; otherwise, in case of 
further delay, the contract for the work shall at his own cost and 
charge be let by public bidding, as the failure to make or com- 
plete the bridge tends to the great inconvenience of the burghers 
here. 

Jan Verbeeck, plaintiff, against Thomas Koninck, defendant, 
for the balance of payment due to plaintiff by defendant for the 
delivery and sale of a house to the defendant, in payment for 
which the plaintiff received some boards from the defendant, who 
sent them to the Manathans to Mr Jacob, the surgeon, but which 
are said to have been found not merchantable there. 

The defendant says that he received the boards from Evert 
Pels, who owed him good boards. 

The plaintiff says that he has not seen the boards that were 
delivered. 

The court, having heard the statements and arguments on 
both sides, is of opinion that the parties must recover their loss 
in connection with the boards delivered from Evert Pels, who 
delivered them, and if they have been shipped to the Manathans, 
there and in such way as they shall see fit. 

It is decided that Goosen Gerritsen must without delay move 
back the palisades inclosing his lot on the hill [135] as far as 
the stakes that have been set by this court on the street line, 
beside the palisades, on pain of incurring the penalty to be pro- 
vided, without prejudice to the demands of the officer. 



150 Fort Orange and Beverwy^ck 

Upon the request of Claes from Rotterdam and Oom Dirrick 
that they may each obtain a lot in connection with the gardens 
that were granted to them, it is decided to adjourn the matter 
until further advice from the Hon. General and the Supreme 
Council. 

Stoffel, the carpenter, having set a post near his lot, far out- 
side of the line, in the common road, to begin inclosing his lot 
from that point, it is ordered that the aforesaid Stoffel must 
remove said post and the Hon. Magistrates Jacob Schermer- 
horen and Pieter Hertgerts are appointed to stake out the proper 
line and to do or cause to be done whatever is required. 

Upon the request of Cornelis Segertsen to have a piece of 
woodland and to be allowed to fence it in as a pasture for his 
cattle, lying behind the inclosed land of Jan Barentsz Poest, it 
is decided to give for answer that this court will this day make 
an inspection thereof in order afterwards to pass a resolution 
thereon. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

Pieter Hertgerts 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[136] Friday, May 22. 1654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Schermerhoren J: Thomasz 

P: Hertgertsz J: Barentsz Pastoors 

Jacob Jansz Stoll, plaintiff, against Jacob Flodder, Eldert 
Gerbertsz, Willem Bout and Sander Leendertsen, defendants. 

The plaintiff exhibits a written contract made the day before 
yesterday between him and Jacob Flodder, whereby Jacob 
Flodder sold to the plaintiff certain two horses belonging to the 
sawmills, or being his. Plodder's, which in accordance with the 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 151 

aforesaid sale were yesterday also delivered to the plaintiff by 
him, Flodder, [This,] however, [is objected to by] the sureties 
of the said Flodder, to wit, Sander Leendertsen and Willem 
Fredrixsz Bout, in view of a special contract signed by the said 
Flodder in regard to [the lease of] the two mills on the fifth 
kill, whereby his goods such as belong to mills and further all 
his other goods, none excepted, which he then had or might 
acquire or gain in the future, were specially mortgaged and 
pledged as security to the aforesaid sureties, as may appear more 
at large from the contract signed by Jacob Jansz Flodder, it 
being the intention of the aforesaid sureties, as they have openly 
declared before this court, that the horses that were sold may 
not be removed from there until and before Jacob Jansz Flodder 
shall have delivered to the lessee with the mills two similar, good 
horses, in the stead of those that were sold. 

One thing and another being duly considered by this court, 
they are unable to conclude that at the request of the sureties 
the horses may not be removed until the aforesaid Flodder shall 
have brought to the aforesaid mills two hores as aforesaid in the 
stead of the two that were sold; on the other hand, in order to 
satisfy the claims which the sureties make in virtue of the afore- 
said written contract signed by Jacob Flodder, he can first of 
all duly discharge the aforesaid sureties from the obligations of 
the bonds signed by them in regard to the aforesaid mills on the 
fifth kill, [137] since the claims of the sureties aforesaid in this 
matter, as soon as they are discharged, of themselves cease or 
become void. 

Meanwhile, since the plaintiff claims that he suffers much loss, 
expense and damage by reason of the fact that the aforesaid 
horses are not delivered to him according to the bill of sale, the 
plaintiff can recover these from the person of Jacob Flodder, 
whether by further contract, arbitration, or otherwise, in all 
where and in such way as he shall see fit. Meanwhile the afore- 



152 Fort Orange and Beverw\)ck 

said Jacob Flodder is condemned in the costs of this extra- 
ordinary session of the court, advanced by the plaintiff. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Thursday, June 4, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes 

A letter having been received yesterday from the Hon. 
Director General Peter Stuyvesant of the 31st of the preceding 
month, regarding the rumors about the English, ordering that 
the soldiers be sent down, both those who are in the service and 
those who were discharged some time ago, and also to enlist 
people in the country's service and to send them down at the 
first opportunity, it is decided to have the drum beat and to 
enlist all those one can get and who present themselves, on 
condition that they be given a little money in hand, and further 
upon wages of the Hon. Company without prejudice to this 
court. Furthermore it is decided to reply to the aforesaid writ- 
ing as may appear at length from the letter book.'° 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



^^ Minuytboecfi; apparently referring to a book in which letters and 
possibly drafts of other documents were entered and kept for purposes 
of reference. No such book is now in existence. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 153 

[138] Tuesday. June 9. 1654 



Present: 
Omnes 



Cornells Theunisz, plaintiff, against Roeloff Jacopsz, defend- 
ant, about ten beavers and two guilders for house rent claimed 
by plaintiff from defendant. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, condemn the defendant to pay the plaintiff the aforesaid 
ten beavers and two guilders in seawan within the time of six 
months, the attached property of the defendant to remain 
attached until he has paid or given sufficient security for the 
payment. 

Roeloff Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Jan Gouw, defendant, about 
7 Yl beavers which plaintiff owes the defendant and for which 
[the latter] has attached goods belonging to the plaintiff. The 
plaintiff says that money is due him from Jacob Adriaensen, 
wheelwright, and that he assigned this to the defendant in pay- 
ment [of his debt]. It is decided that the plaintiff may have 
Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, summoned to appear before the 
court on the next court day. 

The court having heard the complaint of Roeloff Jacopsz 
against Jan Gouw, that the latter daily goes off with his wife, 
etc., the case is adjourned until the next court day, or some other 
time when further evidence about it may be presented. 

Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, plaintiff, against Jacob from 
Loosdrecht, carpenter, defendant, about some work which the 
defendant agreed to do for the plaintiff, and which he did not 
finish according to his promise, etc. 

Defendant's first default. 

Jan Roelofsen, for not having built upon his lot within the 
appointed and proper time, is ordered to pay one beaver within 
24 hours, 



154 Fort Orange and Beverivyck 

[139] Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Huybert Jansz 
de gu})iy^^ defendant, about fl. 74:- which the defendant is 
alleged to owe plaintiff. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt. 

The defendant is ordered to remain under arrest until he pays 
the seventy-four guilders demanded, or otherwise gives sufficient 
security that payment will be made within the space of three 
months. 

Arent van den Bergh, plaintiff, against Arent Andriesz, 
defendant, on account of a dispute about a gun for which the 
plaintiff paid a certain sum in hand and which the defendant 
claims to be his gun. 

The court is of opinion that the gun must be restored, pro- 
vided the defendant bears part of the expense, as is proper. 

Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Merten, the brewer, defendant, 
about fl.45 or fl.46 for wages earned by the plaintiff [for work] 
on defendant's house. 

The defendant says that to his inconvenience the plaintifF quit 
the work which he had agreed to do. Furthermore that the 
defendant had the timber for two window frames hewn for the 
plaintiff, which the plaintiff himself should have hewn. 

The court having heard the arguments on both sides, refers 
the parties to referees, Herman Bastiaensen, surveyor, and Claes 
Jansz from Baere[n],^^ carpenter, who are to inspect the work 
this day, according to the verbal agreement, and to make a report 
thereof to this court on the next court day. 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Jan Fransen van Hoesem, 
defendant, on account of fl. 62 :-, which the defendant owes the 
plaintiff for the delivery of boards. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the afore- 
said sum of sixty-two guilders, according to the note, within the 
space of twice twenty-four hours, on pain of execution. 

[140] Rutger Jacopsz and Goosen Gerritsen, in the name 
of those in the community here who keep cattle, have requested 

" The rascal. 

^® Baarn, a village in the province of Utrecht. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 155 

permission to close the common road with gates so as to form a 
corral for the cattle, on condition of building a footstep on each 
side. Is provisionally granted until further inspection. 

Andries de Vos, having a power of attorney from Abraham 
Pietersen Vosburgh, has delivered to the court a written answer 
to the written complaint heretofore presented to this court by the 
commissary in regard to the offenses committed by the aforesaid 
Vosburgh. The same being read, the commissary and officer 
here has agreed to make a replication thereto at the first oppor- 
tunity as required by law. 

There having been presented to this court the written report 
of the referees, Herman Bastiaensen, surveyor, and Claes Jansz 
from Baren, carpenter, heretofore appointed to inspect the work 
in dispute between Steven Jansz and Merten, the brewer, and 
to report thereon, it appears that Merten aforesaid, according 
to the best of their knowledge, is entitled to deduct the sum of 
eleven guilders from Steven Jansz's account. The said report 
is approved and Steven Jansz is condemned, as he is found to 
have been at fault, to make proper compensation to the referees 
in addition to having the eleven guilders deducted from his 
account. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[141] Tuesday, June 16, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempto Sander Leendertsen 

Jan Adriaensen, plaintiff, against Evert Pels, defendant, for 
the sum of forty-four beavers and six otters, amounting together 
to the sum of four hundred guilders, in part payment of which 
the plaintiff, or his agent, has accepted an account against the 



156 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Hon. Company for wages earned by the defendant, according to 
a power of attorney given to Jan Jansz from Gottenborg in 
favor of Willem Houttum. The aforesaid account amounts to 
two hundred and eighty-five guilders and four stivers, so that 
there is still due to the plaintiff on account of his master, Willem 
Houttum, or whoever it may concern, the sum of one hundred 
and fourteen guilders, sixteen stivers. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, are of opinion that the defendant must pay to the plaintiff 
the sum of one hundred and fourteen guilders and sixteen stivers 
before the departure of the first ship from this country for patria, 
the above mentioned account of fl. 285 :4— , shown to the court 
and accepted in payment by the plaintiff or his attorney accord- 
ing to the signature, serving to make up the payment in full. 

The Hon. Andries Herperts has delivered in court an account 
of disbursements made last year to Keese Waeye, despatched 
expressly with letters to the Manathans, amounting in seawan, 
etc., to fl.35: 8 stivers; and for cutting quarry stones for the new 
Company's house next to Jochem Keteluyn, twenty guilders, 
amounting together to the sum of fl. 55 : 8 stivers, which sum 
the collector is ordered to pay him. But as to his honor's further 
claims on account of his having been sent last year to the Mana- 
thans as a delegate from this court to the general Lantdagh, the 
expenses whereof amounted according to the account to fl. 1 50:-, 
the payment thereof is deferred until the Hon. General shall 
have been written to about it. 

[142] Leendert Philipsz, plaintiff, against Herman Bastiaen- 
sen, defendant, about the lot in dispute at the last session of the 
court. 

Defendant's first default. 

Jan Gouw, plaintiff, against Roeloff Jacopsz, defendant. 

The defendant appeals to [the testimony of] Jacob Adriaen- 
sen, wheelwright, whom he may cause to be summoned to appear 
on the next court day. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 157 

Dirrick Bensinck, being summoned by the commissary and 
officer to appear before the court to testify in regard to the situa- 
tion of his garden, drawn by lot by the Hon. Jacob Schermer- 
horen and with the leave and consent of this court transferred by 
him to the aforesaid Dirrick Bensingh, has declared as follows, 
to wit: 

That last Whitsunday morning, while he, Bensinck, was 
standing in front of his door, Andries de Vos and Abraham 
Pietersz Vosburgh came to him and asked him, Bensinck, first, 
whether he had complained about his garden to this court, where- 
upon he, Bensingh, said: " It is still my garden, although you 
people have inclosed it without my consent," and that he had 
enough reason to complain because they had taken his garden 
away from him without his knowledge and that they knew that 
it was his garden was certain, for they had previously asked him 
to contribute his share in erecting the fences between them. 
Whereupon th'^y replied that rather than have him, Bensinck, 
make much fuss about it, they would given him back his garden, 
provided that he would pay and reimburse them for the expenses 
incurred by them on the garden. Whereupon he, Bensinck, 
answered them that they had no power to give away the garden, 
but that the authority in the matter rested with this court, which 
had once granted it to him. He therefore requests that he may be 
continued by this court in the possession of this garden and be 
allowed to keep what was once given to him, he, Bensinck, 
declaring [143] further that Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, upon 
resurveying [the lots], found that on the side of his house, 
between him and Willem Hap, there was more ground [than 
originally stated] and that he had allotted them each a few feet 
of ground. 

Commissary Dyckman, plaintiff, against Luykas Pietersen, 
defendant. 



158 



Fort Orange and Beverrv^cJi 



Answer, No. 



Defendant's first default. 

Interrogatories upon which the Hon. Andries Herpertsen 
and Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck, recently retired 
magistrates, have been examined. 

Whether they gave their Answer, No. 

consent to the giving away of 
the garden of Dirrick Ben- 
sinck, formerly owned by 
Jacob Schermerhoren ? 

Likewise of the garden 
which Luykas Pietersen has 
inclosed and for which he 
received a ground brief with- 
out the knowledge of this 
court? 

Likewise of the garden of 
Cornelis Vos, next to Mr 
Rensselaer's? 

Likewise in regard to the 
extension of the lot of Abra- 
ham Pietersz Vosburgh, where 
he lives? 



They declare that 
know nothing about it. 



they 



They declare that they 
know nothing about the new 
extension and the Hon. And- 
ries Herpertsen declares that 
Abraham Pietersen Vosburgh 
has without their knowledge, 
on his own authority, added 
a piece to Mr de Hooges's 
garden, given and allotted to 
him by this court. They offer, 
if need be and required, to con- 
firm the preceding declarations 
by oath. 

The petition of Pieter Lot for a garden to go with his lot 
is laid aside until the next court day. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 159 

Post Meridiem 

The Hon. Volckert Jansz, formerly a magistrate, being legally 
summoned by this court to testify in regard to the lot of Abraham 
Pietersen Vosburgh, has testified as follows, namely: That he 
and other magistrates of this court had shown to the aforesaid 
Vosburgh [144] the length and breadth of the lot, [extending] 
to certain stakes that were driven into the ground, and that the 
said Vosburgh in first inclosing his lot had governed himself 
accordingly and that he is not aware that any additional land 
was afterwards granted to the said Vosburgh. Also, as sworn 
surveyors ought to be trusted to make the survey, that he has 
not verified the number of rods of the survey. 

Secondly, that the lot of Cornelis Vos, near the bridge, was 
ordered by the Hon. de Hooges to be laid out with an angle for 
the greater convenience in using the road across the bridge. 



Wednesday, June 17, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempio Sander Leendertsen 

A petition was read from Adriaen Jansz from Leyden pray- 
ing for permission to have a lot next to the palisades of Thomas 
Jansz for a public house instead of a city tavern, in accordance 
with the consent obtained from the Hon. General and the Hon. 
Supreme Council of New Netherland, written in the margin of 
his petition, dated the 30th of April last past; whereupon it is 
decided that the respective members of this court shall first 
inspect the place. Commissary Dyckman and Jacob Schermer- 
horen being appointed to lay out and measure off the lot, they 
report to this court that in virtue hereof they have for this pur- 
pose laid out a lot for the aforesaid Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, 
next to the road along the palisades of Thomas Jansz, in width. 



160 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

front and rear, five rods and eight feet, in length fourteen rods, 
which is entered here by way of memorandum. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[145] Extraordinary Session, Thursday, June 18, 1654 

Present: 

As before. 

A petition having been read of Andries de Vos and Abraham 
Pietersen Vosburgh, demanding proof of the term " dehnquent " 
in the order issued on the statement of the offenses committed by 
Abraham Pietersen Vosburgh, filed in writing by the commissary 
and officer, it is decided to make an apostil thereon, as follows: 

Whereas the Honorable Court ordered the defendant by 
Tuesday, being the next court day, to present his written rejoinder 
to a certain replication filed by the commissary and officer 
regarding the offenses committed by the defendant, which replica- 
tion was sent to him by the court messenger and in the absence 
of the defendant and his wife presented by the court messenger 
to the defendant's attorney, the aforesaid court messenger has 
in a written return made to this court set forth that he received 
from the defendant's attorney the statement that the defendant's 
attorney, Andryes de Vos, was not inclined to receive any writs 
of the court until the charge of being a delinquent had been 
proved to the defendant by the officer and that the aforesaid 
attorney had received instructions to that effect from the 
defendant before his departure. Whereupon the court has con- 
cluded to order the aforesaid replication to be sent once more 
to the defendant's house, with the express command that he 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 161 

must strictly observe and comply with the order thereon issued 
by this court, the defendant, or his attorney, being further 
ordered once more [146], as they are hereby, that they, or 
either of them, must next Tuesday, without delay, appear before 
this court and at the same time deliver the documents or proofs 
which the defendant may have to submit in his defense, when the 
officer shall likewise produce his evidence to the contrary, to 
show that the defendant on all counts is a delinquent, as the 
officer fully undertakes to do. 

And whereas the officer has requested that as he, in his 
capacity as aforesaid, is to prove the defendant to be a delin- 
quent, the latter [may be ordered to] submit his counter proofs, 
if he has any, at the same time as the officer — which request the 
court judge to be not unreasonable — they finally order the 
defendant to appear on Tuesday next and to argue his case 
against the officer orally and in writing. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[147] Tuesday, June 23, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes dempio Sander Leendertsen 

Last Sunday a letter was received by this court from the 
Honorable General, of the 1 7th of this month, wherein he 
advises the court of the bad news received from the north and 
that on that account, for the better defense of the Manathans, 
they were not only busy repairing the old works, but also obliged 
to begin some new ones. Complaining of the scarcity of money 



162 



Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 



in the treasury, he requests that the most prosperous of the 
burghers here lend a helping hand and that this court would be 
pleased to negotiate a loan of money, on condition that it be 
returned within a year, either in duties, or otherwise, for which 
his honor and the honorable councilors offer their persons and 
property as security. 

After careful consideration of the matter, this court has 
decided to summon the most prosperous and loyal citizens and 
to communicate the matter to them, with the recommendation 
that they assist the Honorable General in this great emergency, 
who, having been summoned one by one and appeared in court, 
have signed for the following amounts, which they have agreed 
to furnish promptly for the purpose and on the conditions here- 
inbefore written, and which it is decided to send at once by the 
sloop of Jacob Symontsz Klomp, in company of two other 
sloops, which are lying ready to sail for the Manathans. They 
have contributed and signed as follows: 

Arent Andriesz, two beavers fl. 16 

Cornelis Theunisz, 25 beavers 200 

Andries Herpertsz, in seawan 70 

Abraham Staets, in seawan 200 

Gerrit Jansz, cooper, 50 beavers 400 

[148] Brought forward from preceding page fl. 886 

Jan van Hoesem, four beavers 32 

Herman Bastiaensen, four beavers 32 

Hendrick Jochemsz, in seawan 1 00 

Jan Hendrixsz, four beavers 32 

Joannes Dyckman, in seawan 28 

Jochem Becker, five beavers fl. 40 

Jacob Schermerhoren, 121/2 beavers 100 

Karsten Jansz, smith, 6 beavers and 2 fl. in seawan . . 50 

Pieter Looxkermans, 1 1/2 beavers 12 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 163 



Jacob Thysz vander Heyden, 1|/2 beavers 12:- 

Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, 6 beavers and 2 fl. in 

seawan 5 

Volckert Jansz, 20 beavers 1 60 ; 

Evert Jansz Wendel, four beavers 32: 

Pieter Bronck, 2 beavers 16: 

Frans Barentsen, in seawan 16: 

Cornelis Vos, 2 beavers , 16: 

Pieter Hertgers, 12^ beavers and fl. 70 in seawan. . 170; 

Rem Jansen, 5 beavers 40: 

Jan Labatie, \2Y2 beavers 100: 

Jan Thomasz, in seawan 1 00; 

Thomas Jansz, one beaver and fl. 2 in seawan 10; 

Claes Hendrixsz, carpenter, a note payable by 

Willem Beeckman, to be collected by the Hon. 

General ' 50 :— 

Willem Bout, 1 beavers 80:— 

Goosen Gerritsen, 15 schepels of wheat and 2 

beavers fl. 61:— 



Total 1 92 Vi beavers and fl.590 in seawan fl. 2225 :- 

But in recounting the number it was found that there was one 
beaver too much, which was sent also, as follows: 

144 whole beavers 
18 drielingen [2/3 skins] 
75 half beavers 

On the 26th of June the above amount was sent off by Jacob 
Symontsen Clomp and by the accompanying sloop, Claes Thysz, 



164 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

master, the wheat, in the presence of the honorable magistrates, 
Jan Verbeeck and Jacob Jansen Schermerhoren. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jacob Schermerhooren 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[149] Tuesday, June 30, 1654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Schermerhoren Frans Barentsz 

J: Verbeeck Pieter Hertgerts 

Andries des Vos, as attorney for Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, 
being summoned to appear in court, is notified and ordered once 
more and as an extra warning to himself and his principal that 
he must two weeks from this date produce in court all the evi- 
dence which he may have in defense of Abraham Pietersz Vos- 
burgh, on pain, etc. Meanwhile the officer, Dyckman, has not 
been neglectful but offered to deliver to this court the documents 
and papers which he can produce in support of his charges against 
Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh and [requests] that the replication 
to which he must make answer be again sent to him by the 
court messenger. 

Jochem Becker, being summoned by the commissary and 
officer to appear in court to testify whether Elmerhuysen Kleyn 
and Gerrit Slichtenhorst did not sell brandy to the savages and 
whether he did not have certain knowledge thereof, more than 
the common rumor and complaint thereof among the burghers, 
has declared as follows: 

That about two months ago, the exact day he has forgotten, 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 165 

he saw a certain savage get brandy and drink it at the house, 
who, coming out of their house drunk, picked up a maul lying 
near the house of Jan van Hoesem's farm and therewith forcibly 
banged open the door of his house and thereupon greatly 
molested him and his family. Also, that when he banged with 
the maul on the door, the dowels came out of the casing and 
that he committed many other outrages. Furthermore, that after- 
wards a Mahican, commonly called " Whoremaster," being 
there in the house drunk and wishing to pay for the brandy drunk 
in the house, with enough money, so it seemed, was given a 
sound thrashing by Elmerhuysen and Slichtenhorst, and on com- 
ing out of the house made a good deal of trouble here and there. 

Jacob Adriaensen, wheelwright, has requested that the attach- 
ment of the goods of Jacob from Loosdrecht at the house of 
Andries Herperts, might be declared valid. 

The same is declared valid. 

[ 1 50] Willem Jansz Stoll being summoned to appear in 
court on account of his having stabbed Dirrick Lammertsz, this 
day two weeks ago, at the house of Hendrick Jochemsz, with a 
knife, has sent in his stead Willem Fredrixsz, who, appearing, 
has requested in the name of the aforesaid Stol that the matter 
might be compromised, which the officer is ordered by this court 
to do, with this reservation, however, that in case he can not 
compound with the parties to his satisfaction and as is proper, 
in the presence of two arbitrators, he can let the action stand, 
to be hereafter disposed of by this court. 

Meanwhile, the witnesses who were present, having been sum- 
moned by the commissary and officer to appear in court, have 
declared as follows: 



^ At this point, there is written in the margin : '* He further declares 
that he saw them hold the glass in the hand and fill it with brandy and 
that he drank it in the house, tapped in their own glass," 



166 



Fort Orange and Beverxvyck 



Interrogatories upon which the honorable court are to 
examine Hendrick Jochemsz, Jan Gouw, Thomas San- 
dertsen and Wynant Gerritsen. 



Whether yesterday, two 
weeks ago, in the afternoon, 
they were not at the house of 
Hendrick Jochemsz? 

Whether they did not see 
there some persons who were 
bowHng and who they were? 

Whether, in the course of 
the game, some trouble did not 
arise and through whom? 

Who the first person was to 
make trouble? 



Whether Willem Jansz Stoll 
did not come with a bare knife 
in his hand and suddenly 
stabbed Dirrick? 



Whether they know how 
Dirrick received the stab? 

Whether Dirrick did not 
seek to retreat from one place 
to the other? 



Answer, Yes. 



They declare they them- 
selves, with the exception of 
Hendrick Jochemsz, and some 
others were bowling there. 

They declare that they saw 
no trouble, except during the 
last game. 

That Dirrick said to Willem 
Jansz Stoll, shaking him by the 
sleeve, without striking him, 
that he should keep his mouth 
shut, or he would sew it up 
with a waxed thread. Willem 
said that Dirrick was a beggar. 
Willem said : " Go and get a 
sword or a rapier and strike, if 
you are an honest fellow!" 

They declare. Yes, and that 
he said among other things to 
Thomas Sandertsen : " Will 
you take it up for him?" stab- 
bing and cutting in every 
direction. 

They declare that they paid 
no attention to it and do not 
know exactly how. 

They declare. Yes, and that 
others meanwhile did their 
best to separate them. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 167 

[151] Stoffel, the carpenter, having come into court, requests 
payment for four bolt locks and one door lock for the guard 
house, the first being delivered for the bastions of the fort, 
amounting together to fl. 9 :-. Decided to grant him and draw 
an order on the honorable treasurers for the amount. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HeRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, July 7, 1654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman Jan Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

J: Schermerhoren Sander Leendertsen Frans Barentsz 

Jochem Becker, baker, being legally summoned by the com- 
missary and officer to appear here on account of the declaration 
made before this court on the 30th of the preceding month, 
which was again read to him, Becker, he has at the request of 
the president and officer with uplifted fingers, by solemn oath, 
confirmed the said declaration regarding the sale of brandy to 
the savages by Elmerhuysen Kleyn and Gerrit Slichtenhorst, for 
so far as it appears thereby. 

A petition was read of Dirrick Lammertsen from Otmarssen,^ 
setting forth that yesterday three weeks ago, without any resist- 
ance on his part, he was stabbed and wounded by Willem Jansz 
Stoll, which said Stoll, as he understands, has compounded with 
the commissary and officer as to his due and the surgeon's fee, 
and praying therefore that for his pain and suffering and loss of 
time he may also be granted some compensation by this court. 
Whereupon it is decided to note in the margin that the lieutenant 



Ootmarssum, in the province of Overyssel, Netherlands, 



168 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

may before the next court day file a statement about it with this 
court, when this court will take his claims into further considera- 
tion and pass a resolution thereon. 

Marcelus Jansz, plaintiff, against De Paus, defendant, about 
a half barrel of beer. 

The defendant as well as the plaintiff refer to the witnesses 
who were present. 

The case is adjourned until the next court day, when the 
parties may have the witnesses summoned also. 

[152] Roeloff Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Tryntgen Jacop's 
daughter, defendant, about an attachment levied by the defend- 
ant on some of the plaintiff's goods. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, decide and order that the goods which are attached by 
the defendant shall remain attached until the plaintiff pays the 
defendant the sum which she claims the plaintiff owes her, or 
else gives sufficient security for the payment thereof. 

Willem Albertsz from Monickendam, plaintiff, against Ellert 
Gerbertsen, defendant, about reimbursement for the costs of the 
summons by this court, advanced by the plaintiff. 

The defendant's first default. 

Cornelis Theunisz van Westbroeck, being subpoenaed by the 
officer to appear before the court to testify whether any of the 
goods attached at the house of Andryes Herpertsen, belonging 
to Jacob Loosdreght, have since the attachment been removed 
from the aforesaid house and delivered to the aforesaid Loos- 
dreght, declares. Yes, and that he had certain knowledge thereof, 
offering to confirm, etc. 

Luykas Pietersz is ordered to pay two beavers to the officer, 
because he has not built upon his lot within the appointed time, 
the same to be paid now, promptly within 24 hours, instead of 
the fl. 25 :— which he was heretofore ordered to pay. 

Merten, the brewer, and his wife have declared at the 
request of the officer that last Tuesday, in the evening, Seeger 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 169 

Cornelisz came and knocked at their door, wanting to drink 
there, and when at first he received no answer and was not let 
in, kicked in the door in such a way that the dowels came out 
of the posts and casing. Coming in with Jacob from Loosdreght, 
he wanted to have beer tapped, which they did not have and 
was not in the house. Not being able to get it, he used many 
vile and abusive words, calling him, Merten, a whoremaster and 
his wife a whore and [saying] that she was found with Frans 
Thomasz in the thicket. [They furthermore declare] that the 
lamp was put out and that Jacob from Loosdreght wanted per 
force to get into the woman's bed and that coming near [133] 
the bed, he did not hesitate to grab and touch here, but did so. 

Adriaen Claesz Brant being subpoenaed to appear in court 
to give further evidence in the matter aforesaid, as far as it is 
in his power, has testified as follows: 

That Seeger Cornelisz at the time mentioned first came and 
knocked at the door, wanting to come in, and when he received 
no answer, kicked it in with his feet or opened it by force in 
such a way that the dowels came out of the casing; that there- 
upon he came into the house by force, using many abusive words, 
but [that the witness], as he went to bed, knows nothing further 
about it. 

Merten, the brewer, on account of various excuses offered 
by him, is, instead of the fl, 1 5 :- to be contributed toward the 
building of the bridges and other expenses, ordered to contribute- 
promptly fl. 10:— 

Neis, or Jacob Adriaensz, wheelwright, plaintiff, against 
Jacob from Loosdreght, defendant, about claims which the 
plaintiff alleges he has against the defendant on account of his 
not carrying forward and finishing the work undertaken by him. 

The defendant being absent, the court decides that the plain- 
tiff may have the defendant summoned to appear on the next 
court day. Defendant's first default. 



170 Fori Orange and Beverivy^ck 

Merten, the mason, declares that he owes Hermanus Hertogh 
no more than ten beavers, or fl. 80:-, for goods bought and 
received. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

[154] Extraordinary Session, Friday, July 15, 1654 

Present: 
Omnes 

After mature consideration of the present juncture of time, 
this court has for various reasons thought it necessary to call 
some of the most favorably disposed of the citizens here before 
the court, to propose to them the necessity and the reasons which 
this court thinks it has to send a present to the Maquas: first 
because the savages, on account of the scarcity of merchandise, 
have been obliged to give much more than ordinarily for the 
goods which they bought by the measure. It is to be noted, 
however, that the good inhabitants themselves had to forego 
what was bought out of their own much needed supply, which 
was the cause and origin of the high cost of the same. How- 
ever, when the ships come here, [it is proposed] to promise them, 
according to the circumstances, to let them have the goods 
cheaper, on the old basis. 

Secondly, to renew the old alliance and friendship between 
both sides. 

Thirdly, in order that they shall in the future not kill our 
cattle, as has happened heretofore. 

Fourthly, that in case the savages should again make some 
presents, as they are accustomed to do, these shall be divided 
among the [present] givers, or their order, in proportion to the 
amount contributed by them. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 171 

Rutger Jacobsz has presented five fathoms of seawan, a kettle 
and four hatchets 

Sander Leendertsen, six fathoms of seawan, three kettles, 
three hatchets and two pounds of powder 

Jacob Schermerhoren, three pounds of powder 

Commissary Dyckman, four fathoms of seawan 

Pieter Hertgerts, two pounds of powder, six fathoms ditto 
and four hatchets 

[155] Jan Thomasz, five fathoms of seawan 

Volckert Jansz, two pounds of powder, four fathoms of 
seawan 

Andryes Herpertsen, four fathoms of seawan 

Goosen Gerritsen, four fathoms of seawan 

Frans Barentsz, three fathoms ditto 

Jan Verbeeck, three fathoms of seawan 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgerts 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, July 31,1 654 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Schermerhoren 

J: Verbeeck Frans Barentsen 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Luykas Pietersz, defendant, 
about a tavern debt amounting to fl. 193:2:—. 

The defendant having been summoned and an attachment 
issued against him, the first default is entered against him. 

Willem Albertsen, plaintiff; against Ellert Gerbertsen, 
defendant. 

Defendant's second default. 



172 Fort Orange and BeverTDpc^ 

Cornelis Houtewael, plaintiff, against Claes Hendrixsz, 
defendant, as surety for Jacob Jansz Flodder with reference to 
the monthly wages claimed by the plaintiff, amounting to 
fl.60:- 

The defendant's first default. 

Cornelis Gerbrantsen, plaintiff, against Jacob Symontsen 
Clomp, defendant, about fl.60: I 1 stivers, for wages earned on 
the defendant's sloop. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, have ordered, as they do hereby, that the defendant shall 
pay the plaintiff before his departure from here the sum of 
fl. 60:1 1 :-, demanded, on pain of execution. 

[156] Mr Johan de Hulter, plaintiff, against Willem Albert- 
sen from Munickendam, defendant, about a jack loaned by the 
plaintiff to the defendant, which was not returned in good con- 
dition, whole and in order as it was delivered by the plaintiff to 
the defendant. 

The defendant says that he returned the same. 

The parties may on the next court day appear before this 
court with their evidence to show whether the jack was returned 
in the same condition as it was delivered, when judgment in the 
matter shall be given. 

The case of Seeger Comelisz is adjourned until the next court 
day, or the first opportunity, to take the oaths of the witnesses. 

This court having carefully considered the complaints made 
to it by Catharina Liberis, widow of Pieter Theunisz from 
Brunswyck, deceased, at Katskill, and also examined the pro- 
visional will made and afterwards approved by this court at the 
request of the petitioner, with regard to the surviving daughter 
of the deceased aforesaid, have concluded that in virtue of the 
will made [by the deceased] the aforesaid widow shall remain 
in full possession of the property there until such time as she 
may marry or die and, furthermore, that if she can not come to 
a legal agreement with the aforesaid surviving daughter or her 
husband about the complaints made as aforesaid, they must both 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 173 

leave the farm at once, without being allowed to come on it 
again for the time of six months, or to give any orders there, on 
pain, etc. Meanwhile, this court shall in that case settle the 
matter in such a way as by both sides shall be considered reason- 
able and just. 

[157] Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh being summoned by the 
commissary and officer to appear in court on account of the 
offenses committed by him and appearing with his attorney, 
Andryes de Vos, they both request that the matters pending 
before this court growing out of [acts] committed by him and 
his wife, Geertruyt Pieter's daughter, may at this [critical] 
juncture of time be composed and settled by arbitrators to be 
chosen by both sides. Whereupon the court, taking into account 
the present dangerous times, condescend to do so, on condition 
that if they can not come to any satisfactory agreement, the 
action shall remain unabated. On the side of the commissary 
were chosen and appointed the present honorable magistrates, 
and on the defendant's side Rutger Jacopsz and Goosen Ger- 
ritsen, whose award is inserted here as follows: 

Abraham Pietersen Vosburgh and his attorney, Andryes de 
Vos, having this morning requested in court that the matters in 
dispute pending before this court [as to offenses] committed by 
the aforesaid Vosburgh and his wife, in actions, words or deeds, 
may be settled by arbitrators, it is by way of compromise agreed 
by the arbitrators appointed by the defendant on the one side 
and those appointed by the honorable court on the other side 
that all causes of action and claims which the officer may to 
this date have against the aforesaid Vosburgh shall be composed, 
annulled, canceled and settled, on condition that the officer 
shall receive from the aforesaid Vosburgh as a fine the sum of 
two hundred and fifty guilders, one half to be paid promptly 
within six weeks and the other half within six weeks thereafter. 
However, the aforesaid Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh is to remain 
deposed from his office of surveyor. Andryes de Vos is retain 
the garden inclosed by him, but the lot on which he [158] 



174 Fort Orange and Bevenv\)ck 

resides and which he enlarged far beyond its proper limits, con- 
trary to the order of this court, he shall reduce in size according 
to the pleasure of this court, without any objection, and the 
whole extent of the garden of Luykas Pietersz shall revert, as 
it does hereby, to this court. Provided, finally, that the wife 
of Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh shall come and appear before 
this court and declare that she has nothing to say about any of 
the members but what is honorable and of good repute. For the 
faithful performance hereof signed with their own hands, this 
15th of July 1654. Was signed: Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh. 
As arbitrators: Rutger Jacobsz, the mark X of Goosen Ger- 
ritsen, set with his own hand. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Frans Barensen Pastoors 



Tuesday, August 11,1 654 



Present: 
Omnes 



In response to a communication from the Hon. Director 
General, the Hon. Commissary and Jan Verbeeck are appointed 
a committee [to confer with him] in accordance with the com- 
mission and instructions to be given to their honors. 

[The court] having heard the report of the honorable com- 
mittee, consisting of the commissary and Jan Verbeeck, 
[appointed to go] to the Esopus to measure the lands there, and 
having furthermore examined the petition of Evert Pels, stating 
that the lands bought by them looked to the eye larger than 
they were actually found to be and requesting that he. Evert 
Pels, may be allowed to purchase some of the land which the 
Hon. General intends to keep for himself, it is decided that the 
committee going to the Manathans are to confer about the matter 
there and exhibit the aforesaid petition. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 175 

[159] Whereas some savages, both Maquas and Senecas, 
have this day, according to ancient custom, made a present to 
this court, it is, in order to give them some powder in return, 
thought proper to present them among other things with 25 lbs 
of powder. The Hon. Abraham Staets is therefore requested 
to let them have the same from the Hon. Company's powder 
which is in his honor's custody, provided that he shall be dis- 
charged by this court from the obligation to account for it to the 
Hon. General and hereafter communicate to his honor the con- 
tents of the present. The aforesaid savages have furthermore 
made some propositions to which answer in proper form was 
made. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, August 25, 1654 
Present: 

Omnes 

Cornelis Houtewael, plaintiff, against Claes Hendrixsz, or 
Jacob Plodder, defendant, about wages earned by the plaintiff 
of the defendant, amounting to the sum of sixty guilders. 

The defendant is ordered to pay the aforesaid sixty guilders 
to the plaintiff within the space of twenty-four hours, on pain of 
execution. 

Jochem Becker, plaintiff, against Daniel Rinckhout, defend- 
ant, about some grain measures which he gave and loaned to 
the defendant at the house of Broer Cornelis and which have 
not been returned. 

The court orders the defendant to return the said loaned 
articles to the plaintiff within two days, on pain of paying a fine 
of ten guilders. 



176 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

Geertruyt Pieters, having been legally summoned, the second 
default is entered against her. 

[160] On account of [goods?] advanced for the savages, 
it is decided to grant and draw in favor of the Hon. Jacob Jansz 
Schermerhoren an order in the sum of fl. 15 :- 

Upon the petition of the court messenger, Pieter Ryverdingh, 
it is decided that of the excise money received he is to retain 
the sum of one hundred guilders and must charge that to his 
account. 

For important reasons it is decided to farm out this very after- 
noon the wine and beer tapsters' excise from now until the first 
of May next, in accordance with the notices posted, and to let 
the farming proceed. On the conditions read to him, Jacob 
Hendrixsz Maat became the farmer and gave security in the 
sum of fl.l300:- for the period aforesaid. 

Gerrit Seegertsen having made a request for a building lot, 
the matter is postponed until the return of the honorable com- 
mittee [now] going to the Manathans. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgerts 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, September 1 , 1 654 
Present : 

J: Dyckman Pieter Hertgertsz 

J: Thomasz Frans Barentsz 

Geertruyt Pieters, the wife of Abram Pietersz Vosburgh, 
being legally summoned by the commissary, the third default is 
entered against her. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Maat having a week ago bid in the farming 
of the usual tapsters' excise on wine and beer, has presented a 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 177 

certain writing whereby he requests that in order the better to 
prevent frauds in the matter, the burghers as well as [161] the 
tapsters may be ordered to obtain a proper certificate from the 
farmer or the impost master, to wit, of wines and strong beer 
only, paying two stivers for each certificate, before they be 
allowed to take them into their houses or get them from the 
brewers, or unload them from the incoming sloops and store 
them, and that the former ordinances on the subject may be 
renewed. 

Whereupon it is decided to make the following apostil: 
Proper action thereon will be taken and for that purpose the 
ordinances will be published and posted anew and the same will 
in every way be enforced as is proper. 

As to the second point, regarding the brewers, he may at any 
time inquire, or have inquiry made, what beer is brewed or 
imported, without being necessitated thereby to make an inspec- 
tion of the brewers' houses. But the brewers shall not be allowed 
to furnish any strong beer to the burghers or tapsters until a 
proper certificate from the farmer, or impost master, or his col- 
lector, is shown to them, on pain, etc. 

As to the third point, regarding the time within which every 
one shall be obliged to get a certificate, or certificates, from the 
farmer, this is approved, on condition that the impost master shall 
have to post a notice, or notices, to that effect, stating where the 
collector resides, or where the certificates may be obtained. 

[162] The impost master is promised, however, that [the 
regulations] will in all respects be properly enforced. 

The Hon. Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren having this day a 
week ago resigned from this court in order to go to Patria, his 
honor is with a clasp of the hand thanked for his good comrade- 
ship, the pains which he has taken and the good service per- 
formed by him as a magistrate of the honorable court here, both 
in the interest of the people and of the Hon. Company. At his 



1 78 Fort Orange and BeverTvy^cff 

honor's request, an extract herefrom will be placed in his hands 
to serve him by way of testimonial in case of need. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Wednesday, September 2, 1654 

Resolved to give Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh in part pay- 
ment [of his bill] for the two bridges made in Beverwyck an 
order on the honorable treasurers for the sum of fl.75:- 

JoANNEs Dyckman 

[163] Tuesday. September 9, 1654" 
Present: 



Dyckman Pieter Hertgerts 

Verbeeck Frans Barentsz*' 

Thomasz 



Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jacob Jansz Plodder, defend- 
ant, about fl. 920:-, which the defendant acknowledges that he 
owes, less thirty guilders for some freight brought up the river 
for the plaintiff. 

The parties are to agree about the payment if possible, other- 
wise they may apply again to this court. 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Luykas Pietersz, defendant, 
about a tavern debt amounting to fl. 1 92 : 1 3 :-. 

The defendant admits the debt. 



^^ Thus in the original. The date should be September 8, 1 654. 
^^ The original has Frans Brantsz. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 179 

The defendant is ordered to pay the aforesaid sum of 
fl. 1 92 : 1 3 :- to the plaintiff within the time of six weeks, on pain 
of execution. 

Jan Hendrixsz, plaintiff, against Jan van Aecken, defendant. 

Claes Gerritsz being subpoenaed by the court declares that 
Jan van Aecken let Jan Hendrixsz have a half interest in the 
purchase of the house of Thomas. 

Defendant's first default. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[164] Friday, September 12, 1654 
Present : 



Dyckman Pieter Hertgerts 

Vei^beeck Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

Thomasz 



Jacob Hendrixsz Maet, being subpoenaed by the court to 
testify whether he has not seen like the commissary that Maria 
Jans, the wife of Steeven Jansz, sold some brandy to the squaw 
or to the savages, declares that Maria Jans tapped and gave to 
the squaw some brandy in a small pewter bottle and received 
therefore some seawan in the presence of others, such as Cees 
Pott, Claes Hendrixsz and Ariaen Claesz, who for so far as 
they have seen it have confirmed this statement on oath. Ariaen 
Claesz declares that he saw a pewter bottle with brandy, which 
brandy to the best of his knowledge was tapped to the squaw 
by Maria Jans. The same is also sworn to by Jacob Hendrixsz 
Maet, who testifies that she poured the brandy which she gave 



Should be September 1 1, 1654. 



180 



Fort Orange and Beverwy^c^ 



to the squaw from a bottle in her cupboard, which he confirms 
on oath. Claes Hendrixsz declares that he tasted the brandy, 
but that he did not see from whom or how the squaw got the 
brandy. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



F: Barentsz 



Tuesday, September 28, 1654 
Present: 

J: Verbeeck J: T\ 

Interrogatories on which this Honorable Court is to examine 
Marten Ottensen, commonly called Swager ^° Merten. 

How old he is and where Answer: Thirty-four years, 
born? born at Amsterdam. 

Whether he has not been at Says: Yes, and that he 
the house of Jacob Luyersz, was there about the 25th of 
where Cornelis the Swede, this month, 
now sailing on the Karreman, 
was present and on what day? 

[165] Whether he was not 
called outside by the said 
Swede? 

Whether among other things 
the said Swede did not ask 
whether he was in any service 
and had sailed to the Cape? 

Whether he did not ask said 
Marten if he was willing to 
serve the Queen? 



An 



swer; 



Yes. 



Answer : Yes. 



Answer: Yes. 



'* This should be. September 29, 1 654. 
^^ Sivager means brother-in-law. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 



181 



Answer : Yes. 



A 



nswer : 



A: 



nswer : 



A 



nswer: 



Yes. 



Yes. 



Yes. 



Answer: He said, "Yes, 
but keep still about it." 



Whether he did not say, " I 
have something secret to tell 
you, but you must keep quiet?" 

Whether he did not say, " I 
have come here by order of the 
Queen to spy out this place?" 

Whether he did not [ask 
him] again to keep still, as 
otherwise it would cost them 
both their lives? 

Whether thereupon he did 
not promise to [let him] be his 
lieutenant in this service? 

Whether he, Swager Mar- 
ten, the next day, asked the 
aforesaid Cornelis, the Swede, 
if he knew what he had said to 
him? 

Whether further he did not Answer: That he did have 

ask Swager Marten whether them at the Manathans. 
he had two or three guns? Whereupon he, Cornelis the 

Swede, said, "All right, keep 
still; we shall see what to do 
further in sailing thither." 

This day, the 28th of September, Swager Marten has taken 
the usual oath on the aforesaid questions and answers in the pres- 
ence of the attending magistrates. 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Frans Barenttsen Pastoo[r]s 



182 Fori Orange and Beverrvyck 

[ 1 66] Extraordinary Session, September 30, 1 654 

Present: 

J: Verbeeck P: Hertgerts J: Thomasz 

Andryes Herpertsen, plaintiff, against Femmetgen Wester- 
kamp, widow of Hendrick Jansz Westerkamp, deceased, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands that the defendant's daughter serve out 
and fulfil her term of service according to her promise and 
contract. 

The defendant requests [permission] to take away her 
daughter in accordance with the promise which she made her 
deceased husband on his deathbed, unless the plaintiff's contract 
be held valid. 

The court, having heard the statements and arguments on 
both sides, order that the promise made by the defendant to her 
deceased husband on his deathbed shall be carried out, on con- 
dition that the defendant's daughter shall remain live weeks 
longer with the plaintiff, in order that he may in that time look 
out for another servant. 

Uldrick Kleyn having come into court requests that he may 
be released from confinement and set free, which is granted him 
on condition that he shall hereafter at the request of this court 
come to justify himself 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERS 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 183 

Extraordinary Session, Thursday, October 15, 1654 

Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

J: Verbeeck Sander Leendertsen Frans Barentsen 

Maria Jans, the wife of Steeven Jansz, plaintiff, against 
Abraham Crowaet,^*' defendant, for payment of fl. 148 and one 
stiver according to a judgment of the court of the colony of 
Rensselaerswyck dated the 27th of August last past. At the 
request of the commissary and officer, the plaintiff declared that 
the attachment levied on the goods in the sloop of Jacob 
Symontsz Clomp was not vacated before his departure from here. 
Eldert Gerbertsz, plaintiff, against Jacob Symontsz Clomp, 
defendant, about one hundred guilders which Jacob Clomp or 
the defendant received from the plaintiff and for which [167] 
he promised to deliver hogs to the plaintiff. [The plaintiff 
alleges] that the defendant brought some hogs up the river but 
sold them to others for eighty guilders. 

The court, having heard the arguments and debates on both 
sides, enjoin the defendant from leaving here without having 
given sufficient security. Meanwhile the officer here is requested 
and ordered on account of the wounding of Ariaen Claesz to 
take the sails and the rudder from board the defendant's sloop. 
The wife of Pieter Cornelisz having requested a lot, consent 
is given, but the granting of the lot is postponed until the sur- 
veying of the lots. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgers 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Meaning: Abraham, the Croat. 



184 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

Tuesday, October 20, 1654 
Present: 
J: Dyckman J: Thomasz Frans Barensz Pastoors 

J: Verbeeck Sander Leendertsz 

Steeven Jansz, plaintiff, against Abraham Crowaet,^^ defend- 
ant, about the preceding claims. 

The court decides that the chest of Abraham Crobaet on 
board the sloop of Jacob Symontsz Clomp shall remain attached 
until the claim is satisfied. 

Jan Hendrixsz, plaintiff, against Jan van Aecken, defendant. 

The plaintiff says that in company with Jan van Aecken he 
bought the house of Thomas Sanders. Parties are referred to 
Mr Anthonius de Hooges, Goosen Gerritsen, Gillis Pietersz and 
Rem Jansz, referees, to agree if they can. 

Adriaen Dirrixsz de Vries, being summoned to appear in 
court, complains that some time ago the officer served a notice on 
him and used many abusive words, complaining of the violence 
committed. 

Cors Boutsen, appearing, requests to know the reasons for 
his detention. Is told that they will be communicated to him 
at the proper time. 

Marcelis Jansz declares that Cors Boutsen [168] came to 
his house with the knife on his hat, wanting to assault him, and 
complains of violence committed at his house by Cors Boutsen, 
Luykas Pietersen and Herman Janssen. 

Gillis Pietersen declares that Cors Boutsen stood with the 
knife on his hat and challenged whoever was willing to a fight. 

Uldrick Kleyn declares that he heard the window crash 
through which the aforesaid three, to wit, Cors Boutsen, Luykas 
Pietersen and Herman Jansz, broke in. 

Eldert Gerbertsz still demands payment for the 100 boards 
delivered to Jacob Symontsz Clomp, for which he promised to 



"' The original has "Abrabraham Crowaet," and in the next line, 
"Arabraham Crobaet." 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 185 

bring him hogs from the Manathans, but which he sold and 
delivered as security to others, requesting that payment be made 
therefor and that the goods attached under the warrant of 
attachment against Jacob Symonsz Clomp may remain attached 
until he is satisfied. The request is granted. 

Lambert van Valckenburgh has requested to have a lot. 
Postponed until the drawing of lots. 

Hendrick Gerritsz requests to have a garden in connection with 
the house which he built on the lot purchased by him. He is 
notified that the matter will be taken into consideration at the 
first opportunity. 

Theunis Cornelisz van Slingerlant requests a lot. Post- 
poned until the drawing of lots. Likewise [the requests of] 
Albert Andriesz and Barent Albertsen. 

Claes Jacopsz requests a lot. Postponed until the drawing 
of lots. 

Joannes Magapolensis having requested to have a lot, a lot 
will be assigned to him on the hill, when the drawing of lots 
takes place. Carsten Carstensen and Gerrit Segertsen have also 
requested lots. Postponed as above. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[169] Extraordinary Session, Wednesday, October 21, 1654 

Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Thomasz Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

J: Verbeeck Sander Leendertsen 

Gillis Pietersen being duly subpoenaed and summoned, 
declares that Marcelis Jansz and Cors Boutsen both had their 
knives out and that Cors Boutsen came with his knife on his hat 
to Marcelis's house and again challenged whoever would [to 
a personal combat] . 



186 Fort Orange and Beverrvyc^ 

Uldrick Kleyn declares that when they first came to the door 
they wanted perforce to have [beer] tapped and broke open the 
window through which Luykas Pietersz jumped in first; that 
Marcelis fetched his sword to defend himself, but that he 
[Pietersz] remained inside by force and that thereafter Cors 
Boutsen and Herman Jansz also broke in and, coming inside, 
tapped in spite of the tavernkeeper beer from a half barrel which 
they gave away there to others. 

Cors Boutsen admits that he also climbed through the window 
and that the window was broken open, but he does not know 
exactly by whom. 

Luykas Pietersz declares that seeing Marcelis standing there, 
he was the first of the three to climb through the window and 
further declares as above. 

Herman Jansz declares that he also climbed through the 
window but that, contrary to the declaration of Luykas Pietersz, 
he did not see Marcelis standing before the window. 

Uldrick Kleyn declares that he heard the breaking of the 
window and that he saw them break in, to wit, Luykas Pietersz, 
Cortsz and Marceles, whereupon and on all of this [evidence] 
it is decided to hold the persons of Cors Boutsen, Luykas Pieter- 
sen and Herman Jansz in custody in irons until further order. 

Jacob from Loosdrecht asks for a lot. Deferred to the draw- 
ing of lots. 

Joannes van Twiller requests permission of the court to have 
a door leading out of the fort. Decided to write about it to the 
Hon. General [ 1 70] and to submit the matter to his wise and 
superior judgment. Meanwhile, the court is of opinion that for 
the security of the fort it would be better and more suitable if he 
had [a door] on the west side, within the fort. However, they 
leave the matter to the pleasure of the Hon. General. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 187 

Tuesday, November 3, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Frans Barentsen Pastors 

J. Verbeeck Sander Leendertsen 

Jacob van Loosdrecht, plaintiff, against Maria Jans, being 
the wife of Steeven Jansz, defendant. 

The plaintiff declares that the defendant sold brandy to the 
savages and that he saw^ it. 

Maria Jans declares that she said to the plaintiff that she 
would not do it for fifty, or even one hundred guilders, and that 
she did not sell any brandy to the savages. She requests that 
the matter may be disposed of. 

The officer having put the matter into the hands of the magis- 
trates, it is decided not to enter into any agreement regardmg it 
until the case of Uldrick Kleyn is taken up also. 

Jan Roelofsz is chosen and appointed surveyor besides Her- 
man Bastiaensen, and is bound hereafter to take the surveyor's 
oath. 

Wednesday, November 25, 1654 

Oath taken by Jan Roelofsz, surveyor, chosen and appointed 
by this court on the 3d of this month: 

I promise and swear in the presence of Almighty God that 
without [favor or] prejudice to any one I shall do the surveying 
in the presence of [the two members of the] [171] committee 
of this honorable court. So help me God Almighty. 

This day, on the date above written, Jan Roeloffsz, surveyor, 
has taken the surveyor's oath. 

Claes Hrendricxsz, carpenter, requests to have a lot 

Willem Jansz Stoll, [a lot] 

Jan Labatie, a lot 

Jan Lammertsz, soldier, a lot 

Adriaen Claesz requests a lot 

Jacob Adriaensz soo gemackelyck, [a lot] 

Joannes Dyckman 



188 



Fort Orange and Beverivyck 



Tuesday, December 2, 1654 
Present: 

J : Dyckman 
J: Verbeeck 



Sander Leendertsen 
Pieter Hertgerts 



The honorable consistory here, plaintiffs, against Claes Ripsz, 
have requested in the presence of the defendant that the defend- 
ant may be examined on [interrogatories] as follows: 

We, the undersigned, Gedeon Schaets, minister, Rutger 
Jacobsz, elder, and Anthony de Hooges, deacon, being appointed 
a committee by the honorable consistory, request that the honor- 
able court of Fort Orange and Beverwyck may be pleased to 
have Claes Ripsen, summoned before the court at our instance, 
according to our duty, answer the following interrogatories and 
then to take into consideration our arguments. 



First, whether Klaes Ripsz 
does not admit having had 
carnal conversation with the 
sister [of] the wife of Teunis 
Jacopsz? 

[ 1 72] Whether he promised 
to marry her or not? 

Whether he has acknowl- 
edged that he is the father of 
the child of which the aforesaid 
woman was recently delivered, 
or not? 

Whether he has requested 
to have the banns of marriage 
proclaimed here, or not? 

Whether he was informed 
that it had already taken place, 
or not? 



Answer, Yes. 



Answer, Yes, that he would 
marry her. 
Answer, Yes. 



Answer, Yes. 



Answer, Yes, that he was 
so informed. 



Court Minutes. 1652-1656 189 

And for certain reasons he Answer, Yes. 

is asked whether he does not 
often sleep with her yet under 
one cover as man and wife? 

All this, or the foregoing. Answer, Yes. 

being admitted by Klaes 
Ripsz, he is asked whether he 
is willing to marry her, or not? 

When? Says, he expects news from 

his father, whom he has written 
about it. 

Moreover, all excuses and subterfuges about this are very 
illogical for, seeing that man is mortal, it would be full of danger 
for them to depart [without being married] ; 

First, because, although it may be argued that they are 
engaged, this is neither binding [173] nor legal, as long as they 
are not united in marriage in the customary way. 

Secondly, because as a consequence thereof the aforesaid 
child would be illegitimate. 

Thirdly, because of people who live together like man and 
wife one can never know when the woman will again be pregnant 
by him. 

Therefore, in view of the inevitable results and consequences 
above mentioned, we come to the positive conclusion that in 
order to avoid all scandal, to prevent further mischief, to pro- 
mote good order, to maintain justice and finally to fulfil our 
bounden duty, Klaes Ripse must be united with the aforesaid 
person at the first opportunity. Whereupon we expect the judg- 
ment of the honorable court aforesaid. Thus done in Fort 
Orange, the first day of December 1 654. Was signed : Gedeon 
Schaets, pastor in loco, Rutger Jacopsz, elder, and Anthonius 
de Hooges, deacon. 

The honorable court having heard the arguments and debates 
on both sides, condemn the defendant to marry the aforesaid 
person even this day, and as the aforesaid woman is sickly and 



190 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

can not well take the trouble [to go out], the Reverend Gedeon 
Schaets is requested to [perform the marriage at her house]. 
Otherwise, if he, Claes Ripsz, refuses to do so, he shall imme- 
diately be put in irons, until he marries her. Which being pro- 
posed to him, it was found that he had nothing but frivolous 
excuses to offer and therefore was put in irons. 



[174] Tuesday, December 1, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman Sander Leendertsen 

J. Verbeeck Frans Barentsen 

Andryes de Vos, plaintiff, against Claes Gerritsz, Cornells 
Pietersz and Jan Andryesz, defendants, to give testimony to 
the truth, whether it is not known to them when Mr Rensselaer, 
[either himself] or through Jan Barentsz Poest, took possession 
of the farm of Jan Barentsz Poest. They declare that they 
were there at that time and heard, to wit, Claes Gerritsz, that 
the taking out of the grain by Andryes de Vos was refused and 
that he was forbidden to have further access to the barn, such 
being done by them jointly, or as the deponents declare by Jan 
Barentsz Poest, offering to confirm this on oath. 

Baeffgen Pieters, plaintiff, against Maria Jans, defendant, in 
a dispute about a water pail. 

Maria Jans claims that the pail aforesaid was given to her. 

Baeffgen Pieters, plaintiff, against Aert Otterspoor, defendant, 
about a tavern debt of fl.l9 or fl.20. 

Defendant's first default. 

Mr Johan de Hulter having come into court has exhibited a 
certain letter written to Cristoffel Davitsz by the Hon. General. 
It IS decided to have the same copied and in addition to notify 
him, Christoffel Davits, that he must give the aforesaid gentleman 
peaceful possession [of the land] in response to his complaints 
and if he sees fit have the case argued by his competent 
[attorney]. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 191 

Maria Jans, plaintiff, against Abraham Crowaet, defendant. 

The defendant's third default and he is ordered to satisfy the 
plaintiff before his departure, on pain of arrest for debt. 

[176]^^ Pieter Bronck, being subpoenaed by the court, 
declares that he took out of the hand of Jacob Flodder and 
broke a pair of dividers which he held while in dispute with 
Hendrixsz, deceased, but whether he, Flodder, intended to do 
any harm with them he does not know. 

Master Jacob, surgeon, declares that Jan Gouw cut Piet Bout 
across the hand. 

Jan van Hoesem has brought into court fl. 80:-, in addition 
to the fl. 40:-, making together one hundred and twenty guilders, 
in payment in full by Jan Fransz van Hoesem for the lot of 
Willem Juriaensen, according to the judgment [against him] by 
this court, dated the 25th of November last. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, December 15, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman Jan Thomasz Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

J. Verbeeck Sander Leendertsz 

Maria Jans, plaintiff, against Abram Crowaet, defendant, for 
fl. 17:10:- and sixty guilders heretofore disbursed for conven- 
ing the court in extraordinary session, and that he shall not depart 
from here until he has paid sixty guilders on account and in part 
payment of the sum of fl. 138, with costs. 

Whereas Maria Jans, the wife of Steven Jansz, defendant, 
on the third of November last acknowledged before this court 
that she sold brandy to the savages, it is decided that the honor- 
able magistrates shall send her a sealed memorandum stating 



In numbering, page 1 75 has been omitted. 



192 Fort Orange and Beverrvyck 

what she therefor and on that account ought to pay to the officer; 
that she must comport herself according to their good advice, 
with further warning not to do so any more in the future, on 
pain of arbitrary correction. 

[178]^^ CorneHs, who lives with Poest, has been assigned lot 
No. 5. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Tuesday, December 22, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman San: Leendertsz 

J: Thomasz Pieter Hertgertsz 

Interrogatories on which this honorable court, at the request 
of Andryes de Vos, is to examine Ryck Rutgertsz from 
Bunnick and Goosen Gerritsen 

Whether the witness, to wit. He admits that he heard 

Goosen Gerritsen, does not [what was said], 
admit having been some time 
ago with the plaintiff on the 
farm of Jan Barentsz Poest to 
trade together in regard to 
some dry boards and that they 
agreed about the purchase? 

Whether he, Andryes de Answers, Yes. 

Vos, did not then go out of the 
door and among other things 
complain that against his will 
he had been forcibly deprived 
by Jan Barentsz of the use of 



In numbering, page 177 has been omitted. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



193 



the barn, for the threshing of 
both oats and pease, and that 
he had thus far been unable to 
get a copy of the contract, so 
that he did not know at all 
how he must govern himself? 

Whether he, Andryes de 
Vos, did not send him, Goosen 
Gerritsen, to go to the honor- 
able secretary, Anthonius de 
Hooges, to ask for a copy of 
the contract about the purchase 
of the [179] wheat and that 
the plaintiff, Andryes de Vos, 
would get it two days later 
when he came to the fort? 

Also, whether Secretary de 
Hooges did not reply then that 
Mr Rensselaer had the con- 
tract and had locked it in his 
desk and that therefore he 
could not do so? 

Whether Ryck Rutgertsz 
was not present on the farm 
and whether he acknowledges 
that he was present in the barn 
when Mr Rensselaer and 
Mons"" Adriaen vander Donck 
and a servant came there while 
they were busy putting the 
wheat in the barn as they were 
not allowed to put it in the 
stacks? 

Whether he, Ryck Rut- 
gertsz, does not acknowledge 

7 



Answers, that upon this re- 
quest he went to Anthonius de 
Hooges. 



Answers, Yes, that he asked 
for it, but received for answer 
that Mr Rensselaer had locked 
it in his desk. This declaration 
he has confirmed by oath. 

Answers, Yes. 



Declares, that Mr Rensse- 
laer said that he was entitled to 



194 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

that he then did not know that the use of the half of the barn 

Mr Rensselaer had forbidden and that he would have the use 

to put it in there because the of it. 

summer wheat had to be put in 

there and that he was entitled 

to the barn as well as Andryes 

de Vos, as buyer of the grain, 

as he had bought his wheat on 

the same condition ? 

Which declaration Ryck Rutgertsz with uplifted fingers has 
confirmed by oath. 



[180] Tuesday, December 22, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman Sander Leendertsen 

J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

Jan Thomasz, plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Schut, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff declares that the defendant has again hired him- 
self out for a year at fl.240 and free washing. 

The defendant denies it and says that he would rather leave 
than serve out the aforesaid time. 

The court, having heard the arguments and pleadings on both 
sides, forbid the defendant to leave, or to hire himself to any one 
in this jurisdiction during the aforesaid time, and order him to 
serve out his time with the plaintiff, on pain of banishment, the 
defendant being further ordered to regulate himself according 
to the [contract]. 

Roeloff Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Hans Inckluis, defendant, 
forfl. 23:8:-. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt and promises to pay 
it within the time of six weeks. 

Roeloff Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Merten, the mason, defend- 
ant, for fl. 5:8:-. 



Court Minutes, J 652-1 656 195 

The defendant agrees to pay this at the first opportunity. 

Luykas Pietersz, being summoned to appear in court, has with 
uplifted fingers declared under oath that he is not guihy of the 
breaking open of Marcehs's window. 

Cors Boutsz's defense having been heard, he is ordered to 
dehver 40 boards to the plaintiff. 

Jan van Aecken, plaintiff, against Carsten Meyndertsen, 
defendant, about some hardware for which they sent beavers to 
Holland for joint account. 

Defendant's first default. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Maet has brought into court fl.160:- in 
seawan, in payment of the first term of the lease of the excise, 
[181 ] which is entered here for future use. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 



Extraordinary Session, Wednesday, December 23, 1654 

Present: 

J. Dyckman Pieter Hertgerls 

Sander Leendertsen Frans Barentsz 

Jan van Aecken, plaintiff, against Carsten Fredrixsz, defend- 
ant, about some beavers sent for joint account to Holland to 
obtain hardware, which has now arrived and is in the hands of 
the defendant. 

The court, having heard the arguments and debates on both 
sides, order the defendant to deliver to the [plaintiff] the goods 
sent over and to settle all accounts even this day, if it is possible, 
and the defendant is ordered to pay the costs of this extraordinary 
session, amounting to fl. 28:10:-. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Pieter Hartgerts 
Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



196 Fort Orange and Bevertvyck 

Tuesday. January 13, 1654 [1655] 
Present: 

J. Dyckman Sander Leendertsz Jan Thomasz 
J. Verbeeck Pieter Hertgers Frans Barentsz 

Evert Pels requests this honorable court that whereas by 
balance of accounts fl.276:7:- is due him from Jan van Bremen, 
the latter's effects at Katskill may remain attached until he first 
and before all [others] shall have been paid. 

There being likewise due to the Hon. Pieter Hertgerts from 
the said Jan van Bremen the sum of fl. 270:-, he requests that 
he may be promptly paid as soon as Evert Pels shall have been 
paid. 

And there being due to Willem Fredrixsz Bout from the 
aforesaid Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen about three hundred guild- 
ers, he requests that the first two persons being paid he may and 
shall then, upon production of proper proof, be paid for one-third. 

Which requests being approved, they are communicated to 
Jan Dirrixsz van Bremen by letter, to regulate himself accord- 
ingly in paying the persons who had his property attached. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgers 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[183] Tuesday, January 26, 1654 [1655] 

Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

J. Verbeeck Sander Leendertsz Frans Barensz 

A petition was read of Jacques Thysz, requesting permission 
to have the use of the lot granted to Master Jacob, the surgeon, 
situated next to the lot of Commissary Dyckman. It is decided 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 197 

to state in an apostil that for certain reasons, instead of the afore- 
said lot, another lot, on the hill, has been granted to the petitioner, 
but if his wife and children should in addition need another lot 
for themselves, he may in that case again apply to this honorable 
court. 

Upon the request of Jacob Jansz Stoll of the one part and 
Claes Hendrixsz from Wtrecht of the other part about the 
[exchange of] said first party's two houses standing in this fort 
and the other party's [house] standing at the Manathans, at 
present occupied by ... , the commissary and officer here, 
together with the Hon. Sander Leendertsz and Pieter Hertgerts, 
are appointed by this honorable court to have said parties come 
before them this morning to legally convey [said houses] to one 
another as they sold them in accordance with the contract of sale. 

Klaes Ripsz, being summoned by the court and once more 
questioned in regard to the declaration made by him on the 
second of December last, has again persisted in said declaration, 
but there being read to him the declarations made on the 4th 
instant at the request of the commissary and officer by the 
Reverend Domine Gidiony Schaets and Adriaen Jansz from 
Leyden, as shown by the said documents, [184] the aforesaid 
defendant, Klaes Ripsz, has suddenly denied the testimony given 
by him and declared that he knows nothing as to the substance 
thereof. It being thereupon decided to summon the Reverend 
Domine Gidiony Schaets and Adriaen Jansz aforesaid to appear 
as witnesses in the presence of the defendant, the said witnesses, 
who deserve full credence, have made their former testimony 
seem conclusive, whereupon the officer has demanded sentence. 

Having stood outside and being sharply examined in regard 
to the offenses committed by him in word and deed, the defendant 
has confessed his guilt, admitted that he acted wrongly and 
prayed for forgiveness, which is granted with the understanding 
that the first time he is again heard to utter such words, he shall 



198 Fort Orange and Beverw})ck 

be punished as an example to others and that he must pay fifty 
guilders to the commissary and officer. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[185] Tuesday, February 2, 1655 
Present : 

J: Dyckman San: Leendertsz Frans Barentsen Pastoors 
J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

At the funeral of the child of Hendrick Jochemsz, Claes Ger- 
ritsz said that Cornelis Vos had given the houses the [nick] names 
that are in circulation, which Hendrick Jochemsz overheard in 
the presence of Jacob Hap. 

A written statement was read, signed by the Hon. Anthonius 
de Hooges and Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, of this date, regard- 
ing the matter of Cornelis de Vos and Claes Gerritsz, in general 
as to the well-known accusation that Cornelis Vos and Claes 
Gerritsz had a hand in giving the names that are in circulation, 
together with a declaration of each, as may be seen more fully 
from the statement. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Maet, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, 
defendant for fl. 129: 14:- 

23: 2:- 



fl. 152: 16:- 



Of the old account of the farmer [of the excise] , fl.274 must 
[be credited] to his account toward payment of the second term, 
on account of wages earned by Abram Jacobsz, deceased, on 
the new Company's house, leaving fl. 93:18, which Pieter 
Bronck must pay in addition to what the farmer receives. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 199 

Jochem Becker declares that Cornelis Vos gave the [nick] 
names and that he heard so from the mouth of Claes Rotterdam, 
his servant, at the harvest feast of Oom Dirrick. 

Jochem Becker and Jan van Hoesem request that as the old 
captain's house is no longer fit for occupation, the same may be 
put in proper repair. 

Before any repairs are made, fearing that an accident may 
take place, it is decided to have a further inspection made at a 
convenient opportunity. 

[186] Claes Gerritsz being summoned by the court and being 
asked whether he knew who was guilty of bestowing the [nick] 
names that are in circulation, declares that some time ago, sittmg 
in the evening at the house of Cornelis Vos, he heard out of his 
own mouth that he had given the following names: 

First, the house of Jan Thomasz, " The Cuckoo's Nest ** 
(het Koeckoeck Nest) 

Goosen Gerritsen's house he gave the name of " Concord 
(de Eendracht) 

Rut Jacopsz' house " The Whistling Wind " (Soesende 
Wint) , to the best of his knowledge 

The house of Jan van Aecken, " The Finch's Nest " (het 
Vincf^enest) 

The house of Andryes Herpertsz, " The House of 111 Man- 
ners " ('< Hu]^s Onbeschoft) 

The house of Philip Pietersz Schuldert, " Fly like the Wind " 
(Vliegende Wint) 

Evert Wendel, " The Griffin " (de Vogel Grijp, Hterally, 
the Grasping Bird) 

The house of Gerrit Jansz, " The House of Discord * 
(Haspel in de SacI^ op het DacJ^) 



*° Literally : Spool in the bag on the roof. The word Haspel, which 
means a spool, is used figuratively in the sense of an awkward, incom- 
petent person. Of persons who frequently quarrel or disagree, it is said 
that they get along like haspels in een zak, like spools in a bag. The 
expression as a whole, however, as it occurs in the text, is obscure. 



200 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

The house of Dirck Jansz Kroon, " The Savingsbank ** (de 
Spaerpot) 

He also declared having heard the house of Mr de Hooges 
mentioned, but that the exact name had escaped him. 

Mother Bogaerdus's house, " The Vulture World " (de 
Cierswerelt) 

The house of Volckert Jansz is called " The Bird Song " 
(de Vogelsanclf)'^'^^ 

Mr Rensselaer's house, " Spoiled early " (Vroegh bedorven) 

Pieter Hertgerts's house, he named " The little sparrow " 
[hei Huysmusgen, used figuratively for a home body, a stay at 
home] 

Claes Gerritsz has with uplifted fingers confirmed the fore- 
going on oath. 

A petition was read of Adriaen van Ilpendam, schoolmaster, 
praying for the exclusive right to keep day and night school and 
that the other schoolmaster who begins to keep night school may 
be enjoined from doing so. It is decided to note in the margin 
that the honorable court can for the present not find sufficient 
reasons for forbidding said schoolmaster to do so. 

J: Dyckman 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgers 

Frans Barentsz Pastoors 



40a 



In the city of Gouda, de Vogelenzang was a street assigned to women 
of ill fame. The word may be used here in some such opprobrious sense. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 201 

[187] Tuesday, February 23, 1653 [1655] 

Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Pleter Hertgerts 

J. Verbeeck San: Leendersz Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

Upon the complaint of Grietgen Jacop's daughter that Cors 
Boutsz had assaulted her on the public street and annoyed her, 
it is decided that the officer shall gather further information about 
the circumstances and that meanwhile Cors Boutsen shall be 
released from his provisional confinement on [promise] to 
reappear and defend himself. 

Eldert Gerbertsz requesting that he may be allotted a garden 
in connection with his lot, the matter is postponed for certain 
reasons until the river is open. 

Jacob Hendrixsz Maet being summoned to appear in court 
and the charges against him having been read to him in regard 
to the things committed and done by him late last Sunday 
evening, he is ordered to submit his counter evidence on the next 
court day. 

Willem Fredrixsz being summoned to appear in court 
declares that Symon, the baker, and he, being at the house of 
Willem Fredrixsz, heard it stated that Claes Gerritsz had named 
the eating house " Seldom satisfied " (Selden satt) and the 
house of Cornelis Vos "The Finch's nest" (het Vinckenest). 

Symon, the baker, being subpoenaed declares as above, to wit, 
like Willem Fredrixsz. 

Grietgen Jacop's daughter declares that Cors Boutsen last 
evening pulled her apron by force from her body and that she 
was forced to leave it in his hands and that it was kept by him, 
Cors Boutsen, although, as Grietgen Jacops declares, she was not 
then asked for any payment, [Thus declared] in the presence 
of Adam Dingeman, to whose testimony she, Grietgen Jacop's 



202 Fori Orange and BeverTv})ck 

daughter, [188] refers and who may be further examined in 

regard to it. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Thursday, February 25, 1655 
Present: 

J: Dyckman J: Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

J: Verbeeck San: Leendertsz Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

There was read a written petition of Pieter Adriaensen Soo 
Gemackelyck, stating that the impost master, Jacob Hendrixsz 
Maet, last Sunday caused to be attached two and a quarter 
barrels of good beer and also had them removed without first 
having notified him, notwithstanding the beer was brewed of his 
own grain, and excusing himself on the ground of former usage 
and custom in the matter. 

Whereupon the honorable court have decided to give for 
answer that the petitioner was not unacquainted with the fact 
that he was not allowed to export any strong beer, wine, or 
distilled liquors out of this jurisdiction without having first 
secured a proper certificate from the impost master. Concerning 
which, in order the better to convince him thereof, he is hereby 
reminded of the ordinances of the Hon. General and the Supreme 
Council published and posted to that end for several years and 
at different times, from which the petitioner had sufficient and 
definite knowledge on the subject and therefore was not allowed 
to do so on pain of the penalty thereto provided. Although he 
maintains that the beer was brewed from his own grain, the 
honorable court, knowing that the aforesaid ordinances were not 
published and posted without his knowledge, judge, according 
to the custom of the fatherland, that no strong beer may be 
removed from one place or jurisdiction to the other, [189] on 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



203 



pain of confiscation of the same, which being a custom of the 
fatherland, according to whose laws and regulations they must 
govern themselves in this country, they declare the aforesaid beer 
confiscated and furthermore, for good reasons, [condemn the 
petitioner] to pay the sum of fifty guilders to the impost master. 

Interrogatories on which at the request of the commissary 
and officer here is to be examined Henrick Jansz Reur, 
court messenger of the colony of Rensselaerswyck. 

First, whether before or Answer, Yes, that he was 

about the time of the freshet there at that time, 
he was at the house of Steeven 
Jansz, whose wife is called 
Maria? 

Whether Herman Jansz van 
Valckenburgh was there, or at that time 
came into the house? 

Whether at that time he did 
not in a violent outburst say in 
the presence of the bystanders 
that the last time he was in 
irons he had seen the wife of 
the aforesaid commissary have 
carnal conversation and com-, 
mit adultery with other persons, 
indicating the size of the horns 
that were put on the commis- 
sary? 

Who else were present? 



Answer, he was in the house 



Declares, Yes. 



Whether the deponent did 
not upbraid him and said: 
" You should keep still, for if 
the husband hears of it, he will 
fight with you?" 

Whether he has anything 
else to say regarding it? 



Supposedly, Jacob Loos- 
drecht. 

Answer, Yes. 



Answer, No. 



204 



Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 



On the 26th of February, Hendrick Jansz Reur has with 
uplifted [ 1 90] fingers confirmed these interrogatories by oath. 

Interrogatories on which this honorable court at the request 
of Commissary Joannes Dyckman is to examine Jacob 
Hendrixs Maet, he to answer categorically, yes, or no 

First, how old he is and Says, About 24 years and 



born at Loosdreght. 

Says, He does not know. 



Says, He saw him drinking. 



Answers and declares. Yes. 



where born? 

Whether before or about 
the time of the late freshet he 
was at the house of Steeven 
Jansz, the wife named Maria, 
and when? 

Whether at that time Har- 
man Jansz van Valckenburgh, 
commonly called " Scheele 
Herman " (Cross-eyed Her- 
man) was not sitting there, 
drinking? 

Whether he did not hear 
him relate and declare that 
when he was last in irons he, 
Herman Jansz van Valcken- 
burgh, aforesaid, saw the wife 
of the commissary aforesaid 
have carnal conversation and 
commit adultery with others, 
showing with outstretched arms 
the size of the horns which 
were put on the said commis- 
sary's head? 



With offer, if need be, to confirm the foregoing by oath, 
this 26th of February 1655. 

Whether he has anything Answers, No. 

more to say and what? 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 



205 



[191] Thursday. February 26, 1654 [1655] 
Interrogatories on which Loys Jacobusz is examined in court 
Present: 



Ut supra 

First, how old he is and 
where born? 

Whether sorne time ago, and 
how long, at the house of 
Adriaen Jansz from Leyden, 
in the hallway, he did not 
reveal to Mr de Hooges the 
scandalous name that was 
given to him, or his wife? 

Secondly, he is asked from 
whom he heard it? 



About 22 years and born at 
Herentaels." 
Answers, Yes. 



Declares, That he heard it 
from Susanna de Truy, the 
wife of Evert Wendel, the 
tailor. 



Loys Jacobusz has offered, if need be, to confirm this, his 
declaration, by oath, and it is decided to subpoena both persons, 
the wife of Evert Wendel as well as Loys Jacobusz, to appear 
on the next court day. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Herenthals, a city in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. 



206 Fori Orange and Beverrv^cJi 

Friday, February 26, 1654 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgerts 

J. Verbeeck San: Leendersz Frans Barentsz Pasloors 

The written demand and conclusion drawn up by the officer 
against Herman Jansz van Valckenburgh on account of various 
serious crimes committed by him having been examined, sentence 
in the matter is postponed until tomorrow. 



[192 J Saturday. February 27. 1655 
Present: 

Omnes 

The written demand and conclusion of Joannes Dyckman, 
commissary and officer here, against Herman Jansz van Valcken- 
burgh, at present in custody, being read and reread, the following 
sentence is pronounced on account of the crimes committed by 
him: 

Sentence 

Herman Jansz van Valckenburgh, at present in custody on 
account of various crimes committed by him, has, after being 
confronted with all the evidence, voluntarily confessed that he 
committed them. 

First, the prisoner, some time ago, of his own accord, together 
with his accomplices broke open the window of Marcelis Jansz, 
of which complaint was lodged with the honorable court by the 
officer, and which, he confesses, was done by him out of pure 
mischief. Then, after the window was broken open, he climbed 
mto the house and according to the complaints of Marcelis Jansz 
assaulted and molested him in his own house; scattered the fire 
over the floor in starting a fire on the hearth of the inside room, 
without allowing the woman or the man of the house to come 
into the inside room to extinguish the fire which had commenced 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 207 

to bum one of the doorposts and the floor; until finally the afore- 
said Marcelis was assisted by the officer, who upon his com- 
plaint about assault went with him and found the conditions as 
described [193] and caused the fire to be extinguished; without 
which to all appearances the house would have suffered con- 
siderable damage from the fire that was started, yes, would have 
been totally ruined. 

Furthermore, secondly, he has confessed that lately when they 
were riding the goose, he, on the public street, (be it said without 
disrespect) befouled the servant, or one of the men of Mr de 
Hulter commonly called Voogel, which he publicly confesses in 
accordance with the testimony thereof secured by Adriaen 
Claesz ; therefore violating and disturbing the peace on the public 
highways and streets. 

Last Monday evening, coming to the house of Steeven Jansz, 
he threatened to beat him, Steeven, in his house, whereupon [the 
said Herman] taking off his coat, he, Steeven, was forced to 
turn [for help] to the officer, who took him into custody, first 
asking the witnesses who were present whether it was true, who 
declared [it to be] absolutely [true], as may be seen more at 
large by the declarations. 

About the time of the last freshet, sitting at the house of 
Steeven Jansz with his feet in irons, he declared openly that he 
had seen the wife of Commissary or Officer Dyckman commit 
adultery with several persons, showing with outstretched arms 
the size of the horns which he saw put on the commissary, accord- 
ing to the information and sworn interrogatories procured thereof, 
which being read to him, he has publicly denied the same and 
declared that he knew nothing about it, the prisoner declaring 
that he was drunk that evening and that the next day he was 
informed by others that he had said so, but that he knows nothing 
about the aforesaid [194] person but what is consistent with 
honor and virtue. 



208 Fori Orange and Beverrvy^ck 

Furthermore, he has here and there made much noise and 
created many disturbances by fighting, etc., which he must admit 
himself. 

The Honorable Court having heard these and other complaints 
and the same having been proved by his own confession, have 
condemned the prisoner, as they do condemn him on the demand 
made by the officer upon due evidence, pronouncing sentence in 
the name and on the part of the High and Mighty Lords the 
States General, his Highness the Prince of Orange, the Honor- 
able Directors of the West India Company and the Honorable 
General and the Supreme Council of New Netherland, as 
follows : 

Herman Jansz van Valckenburgh shall be brought to the place 
where it is customary to execute justice and be put in the flogging 
iron, with a few rods hanging from the post above his head and 
on his breast a sign with the words " False Accuser." Further- 
more, the prisoner shall be banished from this jurisdiction for the 
period of six consecutive years, upon the sole condition that if the 
prisoner hereafter commits any further offenses, the old charges 
and the new shall be dealt with together as they deserve, the 
Honorable Court being moved to mitigate and reduce the 
sentence to this extent in the hope that he may improve his con- 
duct, although the crimes committed by him demand greater and 
severer punishment. 

Thus done and sentenced the 26th of February and executed 
on the 27th of this month of February, in full view of the people 
who were present, 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERS 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1656 209 

[195] Tuesday, March 2, 1655 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgertsen 

J. Verbeeck San: Leendertsz 

Herman Jacopsz, plaintiff, against Claes Hendrixsz, defend- 
ant, about one month and six days' house rent which the plaintiff 
claims is due him from the defendant. The respective parties 
being heard, it is decided to refer them, as is done hereby, to 
referees and arbitrators, to wit, Andryes Herpertsz and Rem 
Jansz, smith, to agree if they can. 

Jan Barentsz Wemp, plaintiff, against Claes Gerritsz, defend- 
ant, about a wagon which is broken and which was loaned by 
the plaintiff for the use of the defendant. It is decided that the 
plaintiff, if he considers his cause just, may prosecute the matter 
further. 

Cornelis Vos is given a copy of the deposition about the miss- 
ing tub of butter, to file his answer thereto on the next court day. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 
Pieter Hartgers 



[196] Tuesday, March 16, 1655 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Pieter Hertgerlsz 

J. Verbeeck San: Leendertsz 

Jacob Hendrixsz Maat, plaintiff, against Steeven Jansz, car- 
penter, defendant, about one hundred boards according to the 
note signed by the defendant. 

The defendant admits the aforesaid debt and agrees to satisfy 
the plaintiff as required one month before the departure of the 
ships from this country for Patria, 



210 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

The honorable schout of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, plain- 
tiff, against Claes Hendrixsz, carpenter, defendant, about certain 
interrogatories read to the defendant on account of the wounding 
of Evert Pels and Gysbert Cornelisz, as appears more fully from 
the document which is returned to his honor, together with the 
confession. 

Jan Barent Wemp, plaintiff, against Claes Gerritsz, defendant. 

Jan Thomasz, as attorney for the plaintiff, alleges that the 
wagon loaned by the plaintiff was broken by the defendant, but 
the defendant says that he did so in the service of Andryes de 
Vos. 

Ordered that the plaintiff may summon the defendant, or 
Andryes de Vos, on the next court day to answer his complaint. 

Wybregh Jacob's daughter, plaintiff, against Aelgen Jan's 
daughter, defendant, on account of some opprobrious words said 
to the plaintiff at her house. 

The defendant admits having said them, but appeals to the 
testimony of Hester, the wife of Herman Bastiaensen, whom the 
plaintiff may cause to be subpoenaed on the next co - < 

[197] Cornelis Vos, being summoned to appear in court, is 
ordered and notified on the next court day promptly to clear 
himself of the charge of having given the familiar nicknames; 
also to explain the meaning of the words and to declare what 
induced him thereto and who advised him to do so and whether 
he did it alone, or who helped him with it. 

Rem Jansz, smith, requests a lot on the hill for his brother- 
in-law, Michiel de Karreman,*' which is granted him on the 
same conditions that are granted to others, the gardens to be 
assigned afterwards by lot 

Jan van Hoesem and Jochem Becker request that the old 
captain's house, which is unfit to be used any longer as a bakery, 
may be put in a proper state of repair. They are notified that 
before any one undertakes to bake in it, it must first be properly 
repaired, in order that no dreaded fire may break out there in 
the future. 



" Michiel. the carter. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 211 

And as to the charge that some bakers, who are freemen, bake 
without having taken the oath, it is decided to issue further 
resolutions on the subject, as elsewhere no one is allowed to 
exercise a trade who has not taken the burgher oath. 

Upon the request of Ysbrant Eldersz to have a lot near the 
third kill, it is decided that an inspection thereof shall be made. 

[198] Hendrick Gerritsz, tailor, and Rem Jansz, smith, hav- 
ing appeared before the honorable court, Hendrick Gerritsz 
aforesaid acknowledges that he is satisfied and paid by Rem 
Jansz for a certain house and lot, standing and situated in Bever- 
wyck, as he, Hendrick Gerritsz, bought the same lately from 
Rut Arentsz, tailor, deceased, bounded on the south by a wagon 
road, on the west by a plain, and on the east by Lourus Jansz, 
or whoever bought the house of him; hereby completely convey- 
ing and transferring said house and lot to the purchaser. Rem 
Jansz, from now on forever, without the grantor retaining any 
further right or interest in the same, just as it was granted and 
conveyed to him, Hendrick Gerritsz, by the curators appointed 
to administer the estate of the aforesaid Rut Arentsz, tailor, 
deceased; requesting that this conveyance made this day before 
the honorable court may be held and remain inviolate and that 
extracts from this register may be issued to the parties to serve 
them in the future. Which request being granted, copies will be 
issued as required. 

Upon the written demand and conclusion of Joannes Dyck- 
man, commissary and officer here, against Jacob Hendrixsz 
Maat, defendant, on account of deeds committed by him at the 
house of Steeven Jansz, both within and outside of the door, 
according to the evidence thereof, and also on account of draw- 
ing his knife on the 21st of February aforesaid, in the evening, 
and his own confession in the matter, it is decided to condemn 
the defendant to pay [199] a fine of one hundred and fifty 



212 Fort Orange and BeverD;i;c^ 

guilders for the benefit of the aforesaid officer, with costs, payable 
promptly within forty-eight hours, without any exemption. 

Joannes Dyckman 
Jan Verbeeck 
Jan Thomasz 

PlETER HaRTGERTS 
The same date. 

Given and granted to the honorable magistrates five lots on 
the hill, marked No. I to No. 5. 

Sander Leendersz, No. 1 , on the west side of Philip Pietersz. 
Frans Barensz, No. 2, on the west side of Sander Leendertsz. 
Pieter Hertgerts, No. 3, on the west side of Frans Barentsz. 
Jan Thomasz, No. 4, on the west side of the guardhouse. 
No. 5, on the west side, adjoining it. 

Joannes Dyckman 

Jan Verbeeck 

Jan Thomasz 

Pieter Hartgerts 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 



[200] Tuesday, April 27, 1655 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

J. Verbeeck Pieter Hertgertsz 

Joannes Dyckman, commissary and officer here, plaintiff, 
against Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, defendant. 

First, in the matter of a note in the sum of two hundred and 
fifty guilders in favor of the plaintiff, given by way of compromise 
for the crimes committed by the defendant, on which, in the 
presence of his referees, Rutger Jacopsz and Goosen Gerritsz, 
he promised to pay one half within six weeks and the other half 
three months later, according to his own request and that of his 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 213 

referees, but which has not yet been paid. The defendant 
appearing before this honorable court, he is for the reasons 
alleged by him given additional time to make payment within 
three weeks from this date, on pain of peremptory execution. 

Secondly, the defendant is notified that in so far as he extended 
his lot contrary to the orders and regulations, he must drav/ in 
his lines within forty-eight hours, as otherwise the officer in his 
official capacity, by order and command of this honorable court, 
shall have to do so. However, he is warned once more and, if 
unwilling, [the officer is] to proceed with the execution of the 
first as well as the second order at the expiration of the periods 
aforesaid. 

Joannes Dyckman, commissary and officer, plaintifi^, against 
Cornelis Vos, defendant. 

The defendant, appearing, hands in his defense, stating that 
he is not guilty of nicknaming the houses and persons, in direct 
contradiction to the oath of Claes Gerritsz. Whereupon it is 
decided that the officer must bring in his replication in legal form 
on the next court day, for the purpose of examining the parties 
with reference thereto. 

[201] Grietgen Nanningh's daughter, plaintiff, against Jan 
Witmont, defendant, on account of a pewter can with brandy 
which was stolen, [the plaintiff] requesting the return of her can. 

Whereupon it is decided to notify her that this honorable court 
shall at the first opportunity take care that the aforesaid can be 
returned to her. 

Claes Jacobsz promises to make the payment on account of 
his lot on the hill within forty-eight hours. 

The commissary and officer here, plaintiff, against Jochem 
Becker, defendant, on account of a pail of good beer found some 
time ago among the savages in going the rounds, referring to the 
testimony and declarations of Willem Jansz Stoll and Marcelis 
Jansz. 

Jan Thomasz, plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Schut, 
defendant. 



214 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

The plaintiff refers to the testimony and declarations of Arent 
the Noorman and Marcelis, but during the session of this 
honorable court the defendant has agreed to serve the plaintiff 
for two months, a week or two more or less, which will begin 
on the first of May next. 

The honorable magistrates, Jan Verbeeck and Pieter Hert- 
gerts, nre appointed and chosen treasurers of this honorrb^ • 
to receive the excise moneys of the impost master as well as the 
moneys for the lots which have been granted. 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, 
because Pieter Bronck, in spite of the attachment of the prop- 
erty in the hands of Jan van Breemen, has not paid but removed 
the grain that was attached. 

The defendant, that is to say, the plaintiff, refers to the testi- 
mony of Arent the Noorman and Marcelis Jansz, who were 
present in Katskill and whom the plaintiff may cause to be 
subpoenaed on the next court day. 

[202] Femmetgen Albert's daughter, plaintiff, against Jacob 
Willemsz de Wolff and Gerrit Sleghtenhorst, defendants, the 
defendants being absent, about a bolting chest which was 
delivered to the defendants and v/hich she needs and which she 
delivered to the defendants only at the leasing of the house. 

The commissary and officer agrees to notify the defendants 
that they must return the chest free of costs and charges as they 
received it and do so immediately. 

Maria Jans, wife of Steeven Jansz, is notified that she must 
promptly pay for the bed sold to the Hon. Pieter Hertgerts, with 
her consent and notwithstanding the attachment, or else deliver 
the bed to his honor within the time of three weeks. 

The foregomg two pages are by mistake incorrectly entered 
and are therefore rewritten as follows: 

Gnetgen Manning's daughter, plaintiff, against Jan Witmont, 
defendant, about a pewter can with brandy, which was stolen. 
Requests that the aforesaid can be returned. 



Court Minutes, J 652-1 656 215 

Whereupon it is decided to notify her that this honorable court 
will at the first opportunity take care that the aforesaid stolen 
can be returned to her. 

Claes Jacobsz promises within forty-eight hours to make the 
required payment for his lot on the hill. 

The commissary and officer here, plaintiff, against Jochem 
Becker, defendant, about a pail of good beer, found some time 
ago among the savages by [the guard going] the rounds. 

The defendant refers to the testimony and declarations of 
Willem Jansz Stoll and Marcelis Jansz, who are to be further 
examined about it. 

Jan Thomasz, plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Schut, defend- 
ant, about a renewal of contract of service by the same, the 
defendant [203] to swear to the truth [of his statements]. Said 
service is alleged to be for the period of four months, commencing 
at the opening of the trade. 

Parties thereupon agree and the defendant promises by hand 
clasp that he will serve the plaintiff for the period of two months, 
commencing the first of May next, or a week or two later, pro- 
vided that he shall receive reasonable wages. 

The honorable magistrates, Jan Verbeeck and Pieter Hert- 
gerts, are chosen and appointed treasurers of this honorable court 
to receive the excise moneys of the impost master as well as the 
money that is promised and due for the lots that have been 
granted. 

Evert Pels, plaintiff, against Pieter Bronck, defendant, 
because Pieter Bronck, notwithstanding the three attachments 
that were issued against the grain in the possession of Jan van 
Bremen, has not paid, but removed the grain thence. The plain- 
tiff refers for corroberation of his statements to the testimony of 
Arent Andries and Marcelis Jansz, who being absent, but hav- 
ing been with the plaintiff at Katskil, may again be summoned 
to appear on the next court day to give further testimony in the 
matter as is proper. 

Femmetgen Albert's daughter, plaintiff, against Jacob Wil- 
lemsz de Wolff and Gerrit Slechtenhorst, defendancb. 



216 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

Defendants' first default, on account of a bolting chest, 
delivered to the defendants and which she needs, being delivered 
by the plaintiff only at the leasing of the house. 

The commissary and officer agrees to notify the defendants 
that they must return the aforesaid bolting chest free of costs 
and charges as they received it, namely, immediately and as is 
proper. 

[204] Maria Jans, wife of Steeven Jansz, is notified that she 
must promptly pay within three weeks for the bed sold to the 
Hon. Pieter Hertgerts, with her consent and in spite of the 
attachment which was issued, or in default thereof deliver the 
bed to his honor at the expiration of the aforesaid time. 



Extraordinary Session, Tuesday, May 1 , 1 655 ** 

Present : 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Frans Barentsz 

J. Verbeeck Pieter Hertgerts Volckart Jansz 

Volckart Jansz, appearing in court, protests against the way 
they now begin to set off the lot of the poorhouse and requests 
that a plot may be made thereof upon further inspection. 

Pursuant to a letter sent to the honorable court by the honor- 
able supreme council of New Netherland under date of the 1 1 th 
of April last past, showing that his honor, Volckart Jansz, has 
been chosen by the honorable supreme court of New Netherland 
as a magistrate of this court and as associate justice of this bench 
of justice, in the stead of Jacob Jansz Schermerhoren, who has 
gone to Holland, [the said Volckart Jansz,] being summoned 
and the aforesaid order and letter having been read to him, has 
with some exceptions taken the following oath as magistrate of 
this honorable court. The oath of Volckart Jansz reads as 
follows : 



May I, 1655, came on a Saturday. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 217 

I, Volckart Jansz, chosen by the honorable supreme council 
of New Netherland as magistrate of this honorable court, to fill 
the place which has become vacant, promise and swear that as a 
good and faithful magistrate I shall to the best of my knowledge 
help this honorable court to administer law and justice, as 
required. So truly help me God Almighty. 

On the date hereof Volckart Jansz took his seat as magistrate 
of this honorable court and was wished much success therewith. 

Jacob Jansz Flodder being arrested for some slanderous words 
spoken about this honorable court, is notified that next Tuesday 
at nine o'clock he must take care to appear and at the same time 
hear the demand and conclusion which the commissary and officer 
shall make and institute in regard thereto. 

Femmetgen Alberts again requesting the return of her bolting 
chest, she is told that she may have her opponents summoned to 
appear on Tuesday next. 

Rut Jacopsz requesting how much shorter he must make his 
garden on the west side, he is told that the court when it adjourns 
shall make a further inspection thereof and show him. 

Herman Bastiaensz, surveyor, requests that he may be dis- 
charged from his office of surveyor, or properly sustained therein, 
complaining [206] among other things that Willem Teller has 
anew moved out his palisades and that others had done likewise. 

[The court decides that] he shall be upheld in his capacity 
of surveyor and that Willem Teller shall be notified that he must 
before Tuesday next move back the newly set palisades of his 
garden, on pain of having the honorable court provide therein 
and have the aforesaid extension taken off. 

Abraham Pietersz Vosburgh, appearing before this honorable 
court, requests that upon paying the fine for which he gave a 
note to the officer in the sum of fl.250:— , he may be exempt from 
the obligation to move back the fence of his lot, which is granted 
him on certain conditions, he to appear before this honorable 
court on Tuesday next, when, if the court approve of it, the piece 
of ground that has been added shall be granted anew, if it seems 
advisable and the court is satisfied therewith. 



218 Fort Orange and BeverTV})cIi 

[207] Tuesday. May 9, 1655** 
Present: 

J. Dyckman J. Thomasz Frans Barentsz 

J. Verbeeck Pieter Hertgerts Volckert Jansz 

A petition was read of Herman Jacobsz of Amsterdam, pray- 
ing that he may be qualified as beer carrier. Whereupon it is 
decided to note in the margin that the brewers' helpers thus far 
perform this work themselves and that for this reason it can not 
be taken away from them. And as for delivering the bread 
grain, that there is already a carter to do this. 

Joannes Dyckman, commissary and officer here, has delivered 
to the court a certain replication to the answer filed by Cornelis 
Vos, which it is decided to place in the hands of the opponent 
to file his rejoinder thereto on the next court day, to justify him- 
self if he can. 

A petition was read of Hendrick Jochemsz, requesting restitu- 
tion of the one hundred guilders which he advanced to the Hon. 
General and the honorable members of the Supreme Council, the 
same to be applied with others toward the payment of duties. 
Whereupon it is decided that the commissary and officer shall 
at the first opportunity when he goes to the Manathans take the 
aforesaid petition with him to promote the restitution through one 
merchant or another, or else and especially, as he bought there- 
with some goods of Theunis Tempelier, to promote the settle- 
ment or payment thereof, to wit, of the aforesaid one hundred 
guilders. 

And as to his request for permission to build a room as an 
extension to his house, the commissary and officer shall be given 
orders to promote that as much as possible. 

[208] A petition was read of the bakers of Beverwyck, 
requesting in the first place that the weight of bread be regulated. 
Whereupon it is decided to write in the margin that this honorable 
court will do so at the first opportunity. 



** The date should be May II, I 655. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 219 

As to the abuse that some bakers continue to bake without 
having taken the oath, this will be prevented as much as possible. 

And as to the request that they may form a guild, the honor- 
able members of this court consider this for the present for certain 
reasons not advisable. 

Pieter Bronck, being summoned, is enjoined from tapping 
strong beer, for the reason that he brews the same, in whatever 
manner it may be, and on acting contrary hereto he shall the 
first time forfeit 25 guilders, the second time forfeit 50 guilders 
and the third time receive arbitrary correction, provided that he 
shall be permitted to draw the wines which he has now in the 
cellar according to the gage. 

Rut Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Femmetgen Alberts Geverts, 
defendant, about the sum of about fl.400 which are due to the 
plaintiff by the defendant according to the account rendered 
thereof and of which the plaintiff demands payment. 

The court having heard the statements and arguments on both 
sides, order and condemn the defendant, Femmetgen Alberts, 
to pay the plaintiff each half year, in part payment of the account, 
the sum of one hundred guilders, promptly, on pain, etc. 

Pieter de Vlamingh [the Fleming] requests lot No. 5, toward 
the hill, of which a further inspection will be made. 

[209] Marcelis Jansz and Arent Andriesz, being summoned 
to appear in court, declare at the request of Evert Pels that they 
heard from the mouth of Jan van Bremen that [Pieter Bronck] 
promised to pay Evert, but as the aforesaid person, being here, 
hid himself, it is decided that in returning from the Manathans 
they shall, if they please, in passing bring the aforesaid Jan van 
Bremen with them, in order that he may give an account of him- 
self here before the honorable court. 

Claes Jansz, carpenter, and Willem Jansz Stoll declare that 
they heard Ryndert Pietersz say that he heard from the mouth 
of Dirrixsz van Bremen that Pieter Bronck had promised to pay 
Evert Pels, for which reason Evert Pels requests that Jan 
Dirrixsz van Bremen be summoned to come here at his own 



220 Fori Orange and BeverTvycl^ 

expense, if in the wrongs to appear before this honorable court 
to justify himself, which is granted. 

Geurt Hendrixsz, plaintiff, against Philip Pieters Scheuler, 
defendant, about an interest in a drag net which the defendant 
bought of Geurt Hendrixsz, whereupon it is decided that in order 
to learn the truth he may have those who entered the partner- 
ship and had an interest in the drag net summoned to appear on 
the next court day, when the parties will be further examined. 

Maria Jans, wife of Steeven Jansz, being summoned by the 
officer on account of a pewter pint measure which she sold to 
the Hon. Pieter Hertgerts and which was stolen and given 
[210] to Jan Witmont and which belonged to Giertgen Bouts, 
she is notified that she must turn over to the Hon. Pieter Hert- 
gerts what she received therefor in order that the missing pint 
may be returned free of costs and charges to Giertgen Bouts. 

Jan Gauw requesting that he may have the lot which was 
heretofore granted to Carsten living in the Grenen Bosch and 
which was not built upon within the proper time, this is granted 
him on condition that he agree wath the officer and satisfy him 
with regard to the fine to be paid because the lot was not built 
upon within the stipulated time. 

Hendrick Jochemsz is granted permission to have the burghers 
shoot the target*^ provided he keeps good order and takes care 
that no accidents occur or result therefrom. 



^^ Den papega^ te laaten schieten; a method of target shooting which 
is described by George McCall Theal, in his History and Ethnography of 
Afr'tce south of the Zambesi, vol. 2, p. 316, as follows: "A figure 
resembling a parrot, and hence called a papegaai, was fixed upon a pole 
in the center of a circle with a radius of eighteen metres. The marksmen 
chose their position upon an arc of this circle in the order in which they 
paid the subscription fees, which were — to residents of Stellenbosch one 
shilling, and to all others four shillings. They fired in the same order, 
standing and without rests for their guns. The small prizes were — for 
knocking off the head four shillings, the right wing two shillings, the left 
wing one shilling and sixpence, the tail one shilling, and a splinter six- 
pence. The great prize was given to him who knocked off the rump and 
by doing so destroyed the whole figure. It was five pounds in cash from 
the honourable company and whatever subscription money was in hand. 
The winner was escorted home in state by the whole body of shooters, 
end had the title of King of the Marksmen until some one else wrest it 
from him." 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 221 

Steeven Jansz, plaintiff, against Jan Jansz, defendant, about 
some money due him for tavern expenses. 

The defendant is ordered to pay the plaintiff one-half now or 
within a month and the other half two months later, promptly, 
without any exceptions. 

Maria Jan, wife of Steeven Jansz, is ordered by this honor- 
able court to suspend tapping in this fort for the period of two 
weeks from this date, precisely. 

The commissary and officer is ordered to pay within the space 
of forty-eight hours [211] to Jacob Jansz Flodder the sum 
of fifty-six guilders, being the [half?]^*" of what the officer 
received from the hands of the aforesaid Flodder on account 
of the late Hendrixsz, but the officer retains nevertheless entire 
his cause of action on account of his misbehavior in the public 
street on Saturday last in calling the honorable commissary and 
some magistrates of the court here bloodhounds and tirants 
steeped in liquor, for which he may proceed against him v/hen 
time and opportunity offer themselves. 

The court of the colony of Rensselaerswyck learning that the 
result and outcome of the fight between Steven Jansz and Jacob 
Hendricksz Maat offers and furnishes them good reasons and 
motives for being vigilant and watchful with respect to the proper 
administration of justice according to their bounden duty, the fact 
in the case being that Steven Jansz was wounded and struck by 
the aforesaid Jacob Jansz with a knife in his left side in such 
a way that he is in peril of losing his life and considering that 
the aforesaid fight took place within the district and jurisdiction 
of the aforesaid colony, they therefore propose and submit the 
matter to the honorable court of Fort Orange and Beverwyck 
with the friendly request, if Jacob Hendricksz above mentioned 
should happen to stay or sojourn in their honors' jurisdiction, 
that they would be pleased by legal process to deliver him into 
the hands of their officer in order that he may take full charge 
of the case [212] and proceed against his person as shall be 



"^ The Dutch text has ; tselt. 



222 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

found proper according to law, the equity hereof being founded 
on the reciprocal duty to accommodate [the court of Fort 
Orange and Beverrwyck] in case a similar situation should pre- 
sent itself on their side, their honors being well aware that this 
is a mutual obligation resting upon all, especially associated, 
courts. Whereupon they expect a speedy resolution and answer, 
since there may be periculum in mora. Done at the session of 
their honors of the aforesaid colony, this 2d of July 1655.*^ 
Below was written: By order of the same, (signed) A: de 
Hooges, secretary. 



Tuesday, June 8, 1 655 
Present: 

J: Verbeeck Sander Leendersz F^ Barentsz 

J: Thomasz P^ Hartgers V*. Jansz 

Rem Jansz, smith, plaintiff, against Willem Hap, defendant, 
about the final payment of 550 guilders in beavers, which the 
defendant still owes on the house bought of the plaintiff, standing 
in Fort Orange. 

The court, having heard the arguments and pleadings on both 
sides, order the defendant to satisfy and pay the plaintiff the 
aforesaid sum of 550 guilders acording to the contract of 
sale within three weeks, or at the latest at the end of the month 
of June, promptly, without any exception. 

Andries de Vos, appearing, requests a copy of the testimony 
and interrogatories secured and drawn up some time ago by the 
honorable court. 

[213] The impost master, Jacob Hendricksz Maat, being 
summoned by the honorable court to turn over to the court the 
third and last payment or term of the amount bid by him at the 
farming out of the excise here, has done so on his appearance in 
court, so that he has paid in full what he owed for the excise 
on wine and beer, from the first term to the last. 



*'' Thus in the original record. Perhaps a mistake for June 2, 1655. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 223 

Same date 
Maria Goosens, wife of Steven Jansz, charged with and hav- 
ing confessed to the sale of some brandy to the savages, is ordered 
to pay a fine of 300 guilders and prohibited from coming into 
this place for a year and six weeks, and this by way of pardon 
and intercession in her behalf on the part of the magistrates. 



Tuesday, July 13, 1655 
Present: 

J. de Deckere "^ S. Leendertsz F\ Barentsz 

J. Verbeecq P^ Hartgers V'. Jansz 

J. Tomasz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Juriaen Jansz, defendant. 

The plaintiff states and the truth is that the defendant on the 
7th of this current month of July has not hesitated in the pres- 
ence and hearing of the honorable magistrates, P^ Harties and 
Frans Barentsz Pastoor, to denounce in scandalous, villanous 
and contemptuous terms the ordinance against going into the 
woods to trade, published on the first of July last, and to speak of 
it in such a way as if the magistrates of this court were thereby 
trying to reserve the entire trade to themselves; also, to make 
the aforesaid gentlemen, and hence the entire court, [214] out 
to be and to call them so to speak before the whole world asses, 
who were incapable of carrying out the provisions of their pla- 
cards and ordinances against those who violated them, all of 
which are matters of serious consequence in a well regulated 
country where justice and government prevail, which ought not 
to be suffered, but severely punished. 



** Johannes de Deckere was appointed on June 21, 1655, presiding 
commissary at Fort Orange, vice Joannes Dyckman, in accordance with a 
resolution of the Director General and Council of New Netherland of 
June 16, 1655. See New York Colonial Manuscripts, vol. 6, p. 57 
and 59. 



224 Fort Orange and Beverrv^cli 

Therefore, the plaintiff, in his capacity aforesaid, demands 
that the defendant shall be condemned to withdraw his state- 
ments here in court and furthermore, bareheaded, with folded 
hands and on bended knees pray God and the court and the 
aforesaid two honorable magistrates for forgiveness, declaring 
that he is heartily sorry and promising that he will nevermore in 
the future do the same, nor anything like it, and that in addition 
he shall be condemned to pay for the benefit of the plaintiff the 
sum of six hundred guilders, with costs, or such other amount, etc. 

The honorable members of this court having heard the verbal 
testimony of the defendant, condemn him to declare publicly 
that he spoke ill and that he is heartily sorry about it and further 
condemn him to pay for the benefit of the officer the sum of 
eighty guilders, to be paid within twenty-four hours, on pain of 
being apprehended. One-third hereof is set aside for the poor. 

[215] Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Bout, defendant. 

He demands condemnation in a fine of [blank] guilders 
because the defendant on the fourth of July last, on Sunday 
evening, after the ringing of the bell, continued to serve and tap 
liquor, etc. 

Remitted. 

Idem, plaintiff, against [blank] 

He demands ut supra, because the defendant after the afore- 
said time sat drinking. 

Ut supra. 

Idem, plaintiff, against [blank] 

He demands ut supra because ut supra. 

Ut supra. 

[216] Tomas Clabbort, plaintiff against The[u]nis Jacobsz, 
defendant. 

He demands condemnation in the sum of fl.2270:-, on 
account of the purchase of certain grain, less the amount that 
has been paid, etc. 

The honorable court having heard the parties and also Andries 
de Vos, who interposed and undertook to carry on the defense 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 225 

for the defendant, and having taken into consideration all that 
is to be considered in the matter, condemn the aforesaid defend- 
ant and Andries de Vos, each in solido to tender and pay the 
aforesaid sum of fl.2270:— , less the amount that has been paid, 
provided that one paying, the other shall be released, without 
prejudice to the cause of action for damages which the defend- 
ant and the interposer think they have against Mr Renselaer 
and his associates, for various reasons. Actum ut supra. 

[217] Marcelis Jansz, plaintiff, against Corn. Pot, defend- 
ant, for the sum of fl. 1 101 :2:— , for tavern expenses. 

The magistrates condemn the defendant to pay the amount 
asked within the space of fourteen days. 

Marcehs Jansz, farmer of the wine excise, jointly with the 
officer, plaintiffs, against Daniel Verwegen, defendant. 

He demands that the defendant be condemned to pay a fine 
of five hogsheads of wine, or the value thereof. Also that a 
certain hogshead of wine, which on the 23d of May last was 
removed by the defendant without a permit, be declared con- 
fiscated, or [the defendant be condemned] to pay the value 
thereof, or other penalty, etc. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides and taken 
everything into consideration, declare the hogshead of wine, 
which according to his own confession was removed by the 
defendant on the 23d of May last, confiscated, provided that 
the defendant may redeem the same for the sum of eighty 
guilders. The second demand is denied. 

Volkert Jansz and P^ Hartgers, magistrates, cause it to be 
noted in connection with the aforesaid sentence that it was 
decreed against their advice, it being on the contrary their opin- 
ion that the defendant ought to be absolved, provided he declare 
that the aforesaid hogshead is the same as that which he entered 
on the 15th of May aforesaid at the farmer's office. 

[218] Theunis Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Andries de Vos, 
defendant, 

8 



226 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

He demands that the defendant be condemned to indemnify 
him, the plaintiff, with reference to the judgment heretofore 
demanded by Tommas Clabbort against the plaintiff. 

The defendant agrees to carry on the defense for the plaintiff. 

Whereas it is said that Gerrit Banker through a certain 
savage let some other savages w^ith their beavers come into his 
house, and Rut Jacobsz, Jacob Teunisz, Evert Wendel and 
Philip P"^". were then near there, they, being subpoenaed to tes- 
tify to the truth for the benefit of the commissary and officer 
here, in his official capacity, have deposed and declared as 
follows : 

Ruth Jacobsz declares that he asked of the said savage, and 
Philip P"^". and Jacob Teunisz that they heard [him ask], 
whether the said savage had traded with certain savages, where- 
upon the aforesaid savage said, Yes. 

The aforesaid Philip P"^". and Evert Wendel declare in addi- 
tion that the said savage came out of the house of the said 
Philip P"^". and that the said savage spoke to them and picked 
up a certain package of beavers belonging to them and went 
away with it, whereupon all the other savages speaking to the 
first savage followed him and together were seen to enter the 
house of Gerrit Banker. 

[219] Interogatories upon which at the request 
of Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, 
are to be heard and examined under oath Tomas 
Paulw, Willem Teljer and Symon Leen, all being 
summoned to testify to the truth. 

First, to ask the deponents' Tomas Paulw declares that 

ages. he is 54 years old; Willem 

Teljer 39, and Symon Leen 
34 years. 
Secondly, whether on Wed- They declare. Yes. 

nesday last, the 7th of this 
month of July, they did not 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 



111 



hear and see that a dispute and 
quarrel arose between Jochim, 
the baker, and Gerrit Slechten- 
horst, about the piHng up of 
some wood? 

Likewise, whether immedi- 
ately after the said persons did 
not each pick up an ax cind 
take hold of it to hack each 
other and whether this was not 
prevented and stopped by the 
intervention of the deponents^ 

Fourthly, whether he, Joch- 
im, the baker, after the said 
separation, did not run home 
and returning with a naked 
sword in the hand made for 
the aforesaid Slechtenhorst? 

[220] Fifthly, whether the 
said Slechtenhorst, seeing this, 
did not retreat to the house of 
the aforesaid Tomas Paulw, 
but was followed into the said 
house and whether the said 
Jochim, being seized by the 
said Tomas Paulw, let him 
take the sword, or gave it to 
him, or both? 

Sixthly,*^ whether the said 
Slechtenhorst, seeing the said 
Jochim without sword, did not 
begin to fight with the said 
Jochim in the house of the 
aforenamed Tomas Poulw and 
whether the said Jochim in the 



They declare that the said 
persons each took up an ax, 
but that they were stopped and 
prevented [from using them] 
and that Jochim, the baker, 
was the first to take up the ax. 

They declare, Yes. 



Tomas Paulw and Symon 
Leen declare. Yes. Willem 
Hil says that he knows nothing 
about it. 



Symon Leen declares that 
things took place as stated. 

Tomas Poulw declares that 
he saw the said persons fight 
in his house, 

Willem Teljer declares that 
he knows nothing about it. 



TTie original has " Fifthly," by mistake. 



228 



Fori Orange and Beveriv^c^ 



course of the struggle and 
while the said Slechtenhorst 
lay underneath did not tear at 
his male organs in a scandalous 
way, causing him to yell and 
scream ? 

Whether the said Jochim, 
being threatened by Symon 
Leen to have his hand cut off 
if he did not stop tearing at the 
aforesaid improper place, was 
not somewhat frightened and 
disturbed thereby, got up and 
ran home through the bakery, 
out of the back part of the 
house ? 

[221] Whether they, the 
witnesses, did not also see that 
the said Slechtenhorst then also 
ran home and returned with a 
naked cutlass, challenging the 
aforesaid Jochim to fight with 
him to the death, or to see who 
would be the bravest? 

And what else followed They declare that Jochim, 

after that? the baker, then ran away and 

the said Slechtenhorst returned 
home. 

Thus done and deposed on the date above written. 

There appeared before the honorable magistrates Claes Ger- 
ritsz and declared that in satisfaction of a certain judgment of 
the honorable court given under date of the 1 2th of May 1 654 
in favor of Rut Jacobsz for the restitution of the 20 beavers 
belonging to Brant van Slechtenhorst which are in his custody, 
he specially binds his house and lot and furthermore his person 



Symon Leen declares as 
stated. 

Tomas Paulw declares that 
he saw the said Jochim run 
away. 

Willem Teljer declares that 
he knows nothing about it. 



Symon Leen and Tomas 
Poulw declare as stated. 

Willem Teljer declares that 
he saw the said Slechtenhorst 
come with a naked sword. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 229 

and property, nothing excepted, submitting them to the control 
of all courts and judges. Actum ut supra. 

[222] There was read a petition presented by Jochim, the 
baker, Jacob Willemsz, Tomas Paulw and Daniel Ringhaut, 
bakers, on which was entered and given the following apostil : 

The magistrates hereby prohibit and forbid the petitioners to 
put any sugar, currants, raisins, or prunes in any bread which 
they bake and hence to sell the same, on pain of forfeiting fifty 
guilders for the benefit of the officer. Actum ut supra. 



Wednesday, July 14, [1655] 
Present: 

Omnibus. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Jochim, the baker, defendant. 

The plaintiff says and declares it to be the truth that the 
defendant on the 7th of July last tried to attack and wound 
the person of Gerrit Slechtenhorst with an ax, and being pre- 
vented from doing so, ran after him and pursued him with a 
naked sword into the house of Tomas Paulw; also that he fought 
with him there and tore at the male organs of said Slechtenhorst 
in a very scandalous way, trying to mutilate and ruin him, being 
only prevented from so doing by threats, whereby, in addition to 
disturbance of the public peace, also private injury and violence 
has been committed against the person and in the house of the 
aforesaid Tomas Paulw; 

The plaintiff, therefore, in his capacity aforesaid, demands 
that the defendant [223] be condemned to pay a fine of one 
thousand guilders. 

The defendant requests a copy of the demand together with 
a copy of the interrogatories. 

The same, plaintiff, against Gerrit Banker, Herman 
[Vetter?].^° 



'°Harmen Vedder? 



230 Fort Orange and BeverJV^)ck 

The plaintiff says that it is the truth that the defendant lately, 
though a certain savage, has not hesitated to entice some other 
savages to come with their beavers into his house, contrary to 
the ordinance issued against it. 

The plaintiff, ex officio, as above, therefore demands that 
the defendant be fined three hundred guilders and in addition 
be suspended from the exercise of his trade for the period of 
one year, all in accordance with the ordinance aforesaid, or 
[that the court impose such] other penalty [as it may see fit]. 

The magistrates having given the defendants the privilege to 
deny the charges upon oath and they remaining thus far in 
default, have nevertheless granted them time until the next court 
day to take the oath, on pain of being condemned to pay the 
fines and penalties provided by the ordinance. Meanwhile the 
defendants are prohibited and enjoined from carrying on any 
trade or barter with the savages until Tuesday next. 

[224] Jacob Hap, appearing before the court, requests an 
apostil on his petition presented heretofore, namely, praying for 
permission and consent to purchase of the native Indians a small 
piece of land situated [blank]. 

It is decided to postpone the matter until the return of the 
honorable general and to notify him that in case consent is given, 
he shall be the first and next person. 

Monsieur Jan de Hulter appearing before the court requests 
letters of recommendation to the honorable council in New 
Netherland, in order that they may be pleased to pass and to 
cause to be published a certain ordinance to inhibit, restrain and 
control the insolence, opposition and disobedience of his servants 
in particular and others in general. 

It IS decided to communicate and recommend this to the hon- 
orable council. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 



231 



They declare accordingly. 



[225] Tuesday, July 20, 1655 

Presentibus omnibus 

preter Sander Leendertz 

Interrogatories on which at the request of Johan 
de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio, 
are to be heard and examined under oath Rut 
Jacobsz, Jan Daret, Philips P"^"., Goosen Gerritsz 
and Andries Jacobsz, all subpoenaed by the court 
to testify to the truth. 
First, whether they, the 

deponents, on Friday last, did 

not hear a certain savage 

acknowledge, confess and 

affirm that without any previ- 
ous gift [on his part] he had 

received as a present from 

Catelyn Sanders, wife of 

Sander Leendertsz, a piece of 

cloth, then shown by him and 

thrown around his body? 
Whether the said savage did 

not declare also that he still 

had all his beavers and that 

before [leaving] he would 

first trade with the said 

Catelyn? 

Whether the said savage did 

say also that he would receive 

some more presents and what 

they were? 

[226] What else they can 

testify to in this matter? 



Declare as above. 



They declare as above and 
that he would receive in addi- 
tion to the piece of cloth a 
piece of linen and stockings. 

They declare that they 
know nothing more about it. 



Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff^, against Catelyn Sanders, wife of Sander Leendertsz, 
defendant. 



232 Fort Orange and Beverw])cJi 

He demands that the defendant be fined three hundred 
guilders and suspended from her business for a year and six 
weeks, in view of the fact that she has recently, or last week, 
undertaken to give or donate a piece of cloth to a certain savage, 
contrary to the ordinance issued against the making of presents, 
or such other penalty, etc. 

The defendant admits that she gave the savage a piece of 
cloth, but that she received from him first two beavers and then 
a lynx coat. 

The plaintiff persists in his demand by way of replication. 

The defendant persists by way of rejoinder. 

The plaintiff asks that the defendant make oath. 

The magistrates order the defendant to declare under oath 
that she received as present from the aforesaid savage first two 
beavers and then a lynx coat and that in return therefor she 
gave the said savage a piece of cloth. 

The defendant took the oath. 

[227] The same, plaintiff, against Jacob Backer, defendant 
and prisoner. 

TTie plaintiff says and the truth is that the defendant last Fri- 
day did not hesitate to declare openly and in so many Dutch 
words that the sentence, meaning and referring to the sentence 
passed last Tuesday against Daniel Vervelen, was a false sen- 
tence; and whereas this is an intolerable wrong and flagrant 
insult to the honorable magistrates of this court, whom the plain- 
tiff in virtue of his office ought to and is bound to defend; 

Therefore, the plaintiff demands that the defendant and 
prisoner be condemned to make honorable and profitable amends 
for this wrong; honorable [amends], by appearing in court and 
there, bareheaded, with folded hands and on bended knees pray- 
ing God and the court for forgiveness and acknowledging that 
the said words thoughtlessly escaped him and consequently, that 
he is heartily sorry; and profitable [amends], by paying for the 
benefit of the plaintiff the sum of six hundred guilders, or some 
other amount. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 233 

The defendant denies the charges. 

The plaintiff persists. 

The same, plaintiff, against Jochim, the baker. 

The defendant to reply. 

The defendant answers promptly in writing. 

The plaintiff persists by way of replication. 

The defendant by way of rejoinder requests copies of the 
plaintiff's evidence, 

Pieter Ryverdingh, plaintiff, against Huybert Jansz, defend- 
ant, for payment of the sum of fl. 53 :3 :— on account of the pur- 
chase of a barrel of Holland beer. 

The defendant admits the debt and requests eight days' delay. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff and grants the 
requested delay. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Gerrit Banker, to testify in accordance with 
the order made on the last court day. 

The defendant refuses to make oath. 

The plaintiff therefore demands that he be condemned to 
pay the fines and penalties provided by the ordinance. 

The court allows the defendant eight days' time to make the 
said declaration under oath, on pain as stated in the previous 
order. Meanwhile, the defendant is prohibited from doing any 
trading or bartering with the savages. 

[229] There was read a petition of Teunis Corn[elisz] van 
Vechten, praying that he might be authorized and have the 
privilege to drive the cart, to the exclusion of others. 

It is decided to defer the matter until the home coming of the 
honorable general and, in case the going around with the cart 
be granted to any one in particular, to procure that he shall be 
the first one in line for the position. Done, the 20th of July 
1655. 



234 Fori Orange and Beverrv^c^ 

Tuesday, July 27, 1655 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Gerrit Slechtenhorst, defendant. 

The plaintiff says and declares it to be the truth that the 
defendant on the 7th of July last ventured first to pick and start 
a quarrel with Jochim Wesselsz, the baker, then to threaten him 
with an ax, and afterwards to fight with said Jochim, the baker, 
in the house of Tomas Paulw, and on being separated from him 
by others, to pursue the said Jochim with a naked cutlass in his 
hand and to strike with the said cutlass against the transom bar 
of the door of the said Tomas Paulw, thereby, in addition to 
the public disturbance committing private injury and violence 
against the person and house of the aforesaid Tomas Paulw; 

Therefore, the plaintiff demands that the defendant be con- 
demned to pay a fine of six hundred guilders, or some other 
penalty, etc. 

The defendant obtains a copy of the demand. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jochim Wessels, baker, defendant, to 
produce his evidence and desist from producing [further testi- 
mony]. 

The defendant agrees to submit all his evidence on the next 
court day and then to desist from further production [of evi- 
dence]. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Gerrit Bancker, defendant, to take 
the oath in conformity to the order of the preceding session of 
the court, on pain as stated therein. 

Tho defendant says that as yet he is not willing to take 
the oath. 

The plaintiff requests consequently that defendant be con- 
demned to pay the fines and penalties provided by the ordinance 
referred to and mentioned in the aforesaid order. 

The magistrates, seeing that the defendant not only remains 
m default, but openly in court refuses to take the oath, condemn 
the defendant to pay a fine of three hundred guilders and pro- 
hibit the defendant from doing any trading or bartering with the 
savages for the period of an entire year. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 235 

Idem, plaintiff, against Marcelis Jansz, defendant, because 
the defendant on Sunday last served or continued to serve drinks 
during divine service. 

Demands that the defendant be fined six guilders in accord- 
ance with the ordinance. 

The magistrates condemn the defendant to pay a fine of four 
guilders. 

[231 ] Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Stoll. Demands 
that the defendant be fined three guilders because he sat drinking 
last Sunday during divine service at the house of Marcelis Jansz. 

The defendant admits having been at the house of Marcelis 
Jansz aforesaid, but denies that he was drinking. Agrees volun- 
tarily to pay the line, which, however, for certain reasons will 
be refunded to him. 

Robbert Vastrick, plaintiff, against Abram Pietersz, defend- 
ant, for the sum of sixty guilders and six stivers, according to his 
note. Demands therefore that the defendant be ordered to pay 
the amount. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The plaintiff requests judgment against the defendant. 

The magistrates condemn the defendant to pay the amount 
asked in beavers, according to the note and his admission made 
in court. 

Abram Pietersz Vosburgh, plaintiff, against Pouwels Lam- 
mertsz, defendant, requesting that the defendant be ordered to 
serve the plaintiff six consecutive days, commencing on this date. 

The magistrates, having heard both parties, condemn the 
defendant in the sum of twenty-four guilders, or otherwise, at his 
choice and option, to the aforesaid six days' service, to commence 
tomorrow. 

Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Claes Wip, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan Gou, defendant. Default. 

Appeared before this honorable court, Frans Barentsz Pas- 
toor, our fellow servant, and declared that he offered himself as 



236 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

surety for Pieter Bronck for the benefit of Ca[r]sten and Meyn- 
dert, the smiths, for the recovery of eleven and a half beavers, 
belonging to them and in the custody of Louris Jansz, he, the 
surety, promising to release the said Ca[r]sten and Meyndert 
from all damage and claims, binding therefor his person, etc. 
Done on the date above w^ritten, in the presence of the under- 
signed magistrates. 

Frans Barentsz Pastoors 



[233] Tuesday, August 24 [1655] 
Present: 

J. de Deckere Sander Leendertsz Frans Barentsz 

Rutger Jacobsz Andries Herpertsz Volkert Jansz 

According to the notice received from the honorable general 
and the honorable supreme council, upon the nomination made 
by this honorable court, there were chosen, in the place of the 
retiring magistrates, Jan Verbeeck and P^ Hertgers, whose term 
has expired, Rutger Jacobsz, Andries Herpertsz and Dirck Jansz 
Croon as extraordinary magistrate, of whom the two ordinary 
magistrates (Dirck Jansz Croon being away from home, or 
absent) , after being summoned by the court, have taken the fol- 
lowing oath of fidelity before the commissary: 

We, the undersigned, in the capacity of chosen magistrates of 
the bench of justice of Fort Orange and Beverwyck, promise and 
swear hereby that together with our fellow magistrates we shall 
help to administer law and justice between man and man and 
according to the best of our knowledge and ability help to main- 
tam and execute the same; also in all respects to conduct our- 
selves loyally and faithfully toward the honorable States General 
of the United Netherlands, the honorable directors and patroons 
of this New Netherland province and the honorable general and 
council residing in New Amsterdam. So truly help us God 
Almighty. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 237 

On this date the oath was taken by Rutger Jacobsz and on 
the 26th by Andries Herpertsz and they were wished much 
success. 

And on the 20th of September the oath was taken by Dirck 
Jansz Croon. 

[234] Johan de Deckere, officer here, ex officio plaintiff, 
against Gerrit Slechtenhorst, defendant, to make answer. 

The defendant promptly makes answer in writing. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jochim Wesselsz, baker, defendant, to 
submit all his evidence in accordance with the promise made on 
the last court day, and to desist from introducing further evidence. 

Default. 

Thursday, August 26, [1655] 
Present: 

R. Jacobsz S. Leendertsz V. Jansz 

Andries Herpertsz Frans Barentsz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Gertruyt Nanninghs, defendant, about the fine 
of 6 guilders because the defendant served liquor on the day of 
prayer. 

Default. Fine remitted. 

Pieter Ryverdingh, messenger, coming before the court, 
requests that he may draw and receive the sum of fifty guilders 
out of the excise money. 

The request being approved, it is decided to give him an order 
or the farmer of the excise. 



[235] Tuesday, November 23, 1655 

Presentibus omnibus 
preter R. Jacobsz 

Pieter Lokermans demands of Claes Hendrixse restitution of 
ten beavers promised by him for a certain lot and consequently 
release from the obligation to purchase the same. 



238 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

The defendant says that he is not bound to return the beavers, 
as it was unnecessary for him to deliver the ground brief to the 
plaintiff as soon as the river was open. 

The court, having heard the parties, denies the plaintiff his 
demand and orders the defendant to fulfil his promise. 

A petition is read of Ludovicus Cobes, requesting permission 
to keep day and evening school. 

The petitioner's request is granted. 

Upon the request of Jochim, the baker, presented in the form 
of a petition, namely, that the straw roof of the house of Willem 
Juriaensz may be condemned and he be ordered, on account of 
the danger involved, to cover the same with boards instead, the 
petitioner's request is granted and it is furthermore decided that 
the aforesaid Willem Juriaensz shall be ordered and urged to 
effect the same within eight, or at the longest within fourteen days. 

After deliberation it is decided, in default of a sufficient supply 
of money, to take out of the excise money the sum of two hun- 
dred guilders to be used in this juncture of time for necessary 
purposes. 

Tuesday, November 30, 1655 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Jochim, the baker, defendant, to present as yet 
his evidence and to waive the right to produce further testimony. 

The defendant submits his evidence. 

The court orders the witnesses to be reexamined. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Gerrit Slechtenhorst, defendant, to 
proceed with the case. The parties rest and submit no further 
evidence, requesting decision and sentence. 

The court condemns the defendant to pay a fine of twenty-five 
guilders and costs. 

The defendant states that he intends to appeal. 

[236] Idem, plaintiff, against Jacob Hap, defendant. 

He demands that the defendant be fined 300 guilders for 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 239 

having now about three weeks ago ventured to injure and wound 
the person of Dirk van Hamel severily in the head with a mug. 

The defendant admits the charge brought against him by the 
plaintiff. 

The plaintiff asks that sentence be pronounced. 

The court condemns the defendant to pay a line of thirty 
guilders. 

Idem, plaintiff, against the same defendant. 

He demands that a fine of one hundred guilders be imposed 
because the defendant recently threw a knife, wounding his 
servant, Isaack Floris in the shoulder. 

The defendant says that the act was committed in haste. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay a fine of twenty 
guilders. 

Idem, plaintiff, against the wife of Willem Bout,^^ defendant. 

He demands that she be fined six guilders for having last 
Sunday served liquor or entertained company during divine serv- 
ice, contrary to the ordinance issued against it. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay the fine requested. 

Volckert Jansz asks to have it noted that the aforesaid sentence 
was passed contrary to his advice. 

Pieter Ryverdingh, plaintiff, against Jan Gou, defendant. 

Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Poulus the Noorman. 

Default. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, appears and 
declares that he appeals from the above sentence pronounced 
against Jacop Hap to the honorable director general and council 
of New Netherland, serving notice that he will submit his 
grievances and prosecute his appeal there and in such way as 
he shall see fit. 

[237] Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex 
officio plaintiff, against Jannitge Jans, wife of Adriaen Dircksz 
Vries, at present a prisoner, defendant. 



Geertruyt Nanninghs. 



240 Fort Orange and Beverw^cf^ 

The plaintiff says that it is the truth that the prisoner has not 
hesitated on the 26th of September last, being Sunday, to sell 
brandy to a certain savage, contrary to the placard and ordinance 
issued against it. 

He demands therefore, in the name of the supreme authorities 
of this province, the honorable director general and council of 
New Netherland, that the prisoner shall be brought to the place 
where it is customary to execute justice and that she shall there 
be publicly exposed at the whipping post and be punished with 
the rod; furthermore, that all her property shall be declared 
forfeited for the benefit of the officer, that she shall be forever 
banished from this country and be condemned to pay the costs 
and expenses of the trial. 

The court, having heard the confession of the prisoner, admin- 
istering justice and preferring leniency to the rigor of justice, 
condemn the prisoner to be publicly exhibited at the whipping 
post, the rod being suspended above her head ; declare her prop- 
erty, if she has any, forfeited for the benefit of the officer, and 
order her, as soon as the river is open, to leave this province for- 
ever, on pain of incurring heavier punishment, and condemn her 
to pay the costs and expenses of the trial. Thus passed on the 
sixth of November in the presence of all the magistrates and pro- 
nounced on the first of December following; present, the com- 
missary and all the magistrates. 

J. DE DeCKERE 
1655 

Sander Lenrsene 

Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 241 

[238] Tuesday, December 7, 1655 

Presentibus omnibus 
preier Volkert Jansz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Hendrick Jochimsz, defendant. 

He demands a fine of fl. 12:0: because the defendant on 
Sunday last, in the fore and after noon, has entertained company, 
contrary to the ordinance issued against it. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides, condemn 
the defendant to pay the fine asked. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Herman Bamboes, defendant. 

He demands a fine of fl.6:0, for reasons as above. 

The court ut supra. 

Appeared in court Jacob Willemsz, baker, and Willem Jansz 
Schut, being subpoenaed to testify to the truth, and declared 
under solemn oath at the request of Johan de Deckere, commis- 
sary and officer here, that it is true that they, in the month of 
July last, were present at the house of Tomas Paul, when 
Jochim, the baker, and Gerrit Slechtenhorst were fighting and 
that they consequently saw that the said Jochem several times 
tore at the male organs of the said Slechtenhorst and that he, 
Jacob Willemsz, forced said Jochim's hand away from the said 
place and that they afterwards heard the said Jochim say that 
he would have torn them, meaning the said instrument with its 
appendix, from his body, if he had not been prevented therefrom. 
So truly may Almighty God help the deponents. Actum ut 
supra. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, defendant, request- 
ing sentence, the order of the last court day being complied with. 

The court, having heard the arguments and defense on both 
sides, having examined the documents respectively submitted and 
having taken into consideration all that is to be considered, con- 
demn the defendant to pay a fine of one hundred guilders and 
costs. 



242 Fori Orange and Beveriv^ck 

[239] Appeared in court Tomas Paul, Jacob Willemsz and 
Hans Coenraets, and declared at the request as above, by true 
words, in the place of an oath, that it is true that on Saturday 
last, to the house of the aforesaid Jacob Willemsz came the wife 
of Carsten the Noorman, having in her hands two round sugar 
cookies and saying, on being asked, that she had obtained or 
bought them at the house of Jochim, the baker; also, that some 
time thereafter there came out of the house of Jochem, the baker, 
a certain savage, carrying an oblong sugar bun, which he said 
he had likewise obtained or bought at the house aforesaid. All 
of which they offer, if need be and required, to confirm by oath. 
Actum ut supra. 

Marcelis Jansz, plaintiff, for the attachment of certain house 
rent amounting to the sum of about fl. 130:—, in the custody of 
Claes Hendrixse, belonging to Jacob Adriaensz, wheelwright, 
defendant. 

He demands security in the amount of fl. [blank], for tavern 
expenses and beer furnished, etc. 

The court decrees the attachment. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 
Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 

[240] Tuesday, December 14, 1655 

Presentibus omnibus 
preter V. Jansz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, plaintiff, 
against Claes Hendrixse, defendant, for the fine of H. 1:10:-, 
because the defendant eight days ago in the evening, after the 
ringing of the bell, was found sitting in the tavern of Herman 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 243 

Bamboes, contrary to the ordinance made about this, for which 
see. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay the fine and costs. 

Domine Gedeon Schaets requests in the name of Paulus 
Schrick payment by Gerrit Slechtenhorst of the sum of fl. 100:—, 
belonging to Femmitge Aelbrechts, for which he offers to give 
security. 

The court, having heard both parties, orders Gerrit Slechten- 
horst to turn over and pay the requested one hundred guilders to 
Domine Schaets, under security for their restitution if it should 
be found to be proper. 

Goossen Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Herman, the brewer, 
defendant. Default. 

Dirck Bentsingh, plaintiff, against Michiel Ryckertsz, 
defendant. 

He demands the restitution of fl. 250:-, received by the 
defendant on account of the sale of a certain lot, which the 
defendant is now unable to deliver in accordance with the 
provisions of the contract. 

The court order the defendant to return the requested fl.250:— 
to the plaintiff. 

Johan de Deckere, ex officio plaintiff, against Jochem, the 
baker, defendant, for a fine of fl. 50:-, because the defendant 
last Saturday sold to a certain savage a sugar bun, contrary to 
the ordinance passed on that subject. 

The defendant is willing to pay the fine, provided the charge 
be proved. 

The plaintiff agrees to prove the same. 

[241 ] There appeared in court Domine Gedeon Schaets and 
declared that he offered himself as surety and principal for the 
restitution of the one hundred guilders which Gerrit Slechtenhorst 
has heretofore been ordered to pay for the benefit of P. Schrik, 



®^ Harmen Harmensen Gansevoort? 



244 Fort Orange and Beverrv^cli 

promising to release the said Slechtenhorst from all further claims, 
binding himself thereto as by law provided. 

Gideon Schaets 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 
Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Tuesday, January 18, 1656 
Preseniihus omnibus 

Jan Hendrixse, plaintiff, against Jan Baptist van Renselaer, 
defendant. 

He requests compensation for a certain sow run over by the 
defendant's horse, valued at the sum of four beavers, or so much 
more or less as the magistrates or honest people shall consider 
proper. 

The court refers the parties to Goosen Gerritsz and Philip 
P"^*^. Schuyler, referees. 

Tomas Chambers, plaintiff, against Jacob Hap, defendant. 
Default. 

Roelof Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Maerten, the farmer, 
defendant and prisoner. 

He demands payment of the sum of fl. 11 :2 :- due for tavern 
expenses. 

Default. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer, demands a line 
of sixteen guilders for violation of the ordinance against sleighing. 

The court holds the matter under consideration. 

[2421 Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex 
officio plaintiff, against Willem Teller, defendant. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 245 

He demands that the defendant be arbitrarily mulcted for 
having fought a week ago last Sunday with Tierk Claesz. 

The defendant agrees to compound with the officer. The 
officer accepts. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan van Housen, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Tierk Claesz, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Piet Bont, defendant. Default. 

Frans Barentsz, our fellow member of the board, having 
shown to us that except at his great discomfort, loss and incon- 
venience he is no longer able to attend to and take up the monthly 
collection ordered by the Honorable Director General Petrus 
Stuyvesant, he requests therefore that with respect to said duties 
in connection with his office of deacon he may now be relieved 
and that such other person as the court shall deem fit may be 
appointed and substituted in his place. 

The court, having weighed the reasons of the aforesaid Pas- 
toor, order and hereby request the person of Evert Wendel to 
take up the aforesaid collection in the stead of the said Frans 
Barentsz, together with Willem Tellier, and to allow himself to 
be employed therein. Actum ut supra. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 

[243] At the request of Thomas Chambers, he is granted 
and ceded a lot for a house, in width, front and rear, ten rods 
and eight feet; in length, twelve rods and eleven feet; adjoining 
to the north Abram Pietersz Vosburch, to the south Claes 
Hendrixse, and to the west the wagon road ; therefore, a lot for 
two gardens is included herein. 

Frans Barentsz Pastoor asks to have a note made in connection 
herewith that he does not approve of granting the aforesaid 



246 Fort Orange and BeveriPj^c^ 

request any further than to the third post of the lot and fence of 
Abram Vosburch. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Tuesday, February 1, 1656 

Presentibus omnibus 
preter S. Leendertsz 

Tomas Chambers, plaintiff, against Jacob Hap, defendant. 

He requests that the defendant according to his promise made 
on the last of December last past before the members of both 
the courts, take the oath. 

The defendant requests eight days' time in order meanwhile 
to gather additional testimony. 

Arent Vogel, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant. 

He demands the sum of fl. 1800:'— as compensation for 
damages which the plaintiff suffered through the defendant's 
failure to haul logs for him, the plaintiff, according to his promise 
and verbal agreement, or at least, to haul as many as the 
defendant agreed to and was bound to haul. 

The parties agree to get together their evidence. 

[244] Pieter Ryverdingh in the capacity of attorney of 
Steven Jansz, plaintiff, against Jacob de Looper, defendant. 

He demands and requests condemnation in the sum of 
fl. 34:18, due for tavern expenses according to the book. 

The defendant admits the debt and requests that execution 
be deferred for three weeks. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the H. 34:18 demanded 
and defers the executions according to the request 



Court Minutes, 1 652- J 656 247 

Idem, plaintiff in the capacity aforesaid, against Jan Gou. 
He demands payment of the sum of fl.35:4:- for expenses as 
above. 

The defendant admits the debt and agrees to pay within the 
time of two months. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff and allows six 
weeks delay. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer, defendant. 
Demands judgment for fl. 20: 16, by balance of accounts, on 
account of expenses as above. 

The defendant claims that he settled with Mary Goossens and 
therefore does not owe as much. He agrees to prove it. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Poulus Maertens, defendant. 
Default. 

The officer demands a fine of sixteen guilders for violation of 
the attachment. The court takes the matter under advisement. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Abram Pietersz Vosburch, defendant. 
Default. 

[245] Frans Barentsz Pastoor, plaintiff, against the same 
defendant. Default. 

Johan de Deckere, ex officio plaintiff, against Tierck Claesen, 
defendant. 

He demands that the defendant be fined sixteen guilders for 
having fought last Sunday with Willem Tellier and killed a goat 
of Sander Leendertsz. 

The court, having heard the defendant's confession, condemns 
him to pay a fine of two and a half beavers. 

Idem, plaintiff, against the same defendant, for having been 
found last Sunday in the company of the Lutherans, performing 
divine service, contrary to the ordinance issued against it. 
Demands therefore that he be fined fl. 6. 

The court, having heard the confession of the defendant, con- 
demns him to pay the fine demanded. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hendrick Jochemsz, defendant. 



248 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

He demands that the defendant be fined six guilders for hav- 
ing Sunday a week ago continued to serve liquor during divine 
service. 

The court, having heard parties on both sides, condemn the 
defendant to pay the fine asked. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen, defendant. He 
demands that the defendant be fined fl. 300, for having in the 
month of May last past wounded the person of Hans Vos with 
a carving knife. 

The court refer the parties to two referees, one to be chosen 
by each. 

[246] Idem, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, defendant, 
to proceed with the case. 

The defendant persists in his former statement that he is 
satisfied to pay the fine, provided the crime be proved. 

The plaintiff agrees to do so. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jacob Hap, defendant. He demands 
that the defendant be fined fl. 1 00 for having last week scandal- 
ously beaten and wounded his wife and thrown firebrands at her, 
so that the sparks or embers flew through the partition door into 
the plaintiff's residence. 

The defendant acknowledges that he beat his wife and drew 
blood. 

The court are of opinion that the defendant is not punishable 
for it as it happened between man and wife. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hendrick Jansz, the cowherd, 
defendant. 

He demands that the defendant be put in irons and arbitrarily 
punished, because the defendant is suspected of having made and 
distributed some notorious lampoons, or pasquils. 

The defendant admits having composed or helped to compose 
a lampoon or little verse, without having, as he says, injured any 
one's honor or reputation. 

The court order the defendant to be provisionally put in irons 
and held for further examination. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 249 

Jochem, the baker, has promised in court to satisfy the officer 
at the latest before Easter in regard to the fine of one hundred 
guilders which he was condemned to pay on the 7th of December 
1655. 

[247] Resolved that on Thursday next every one must bring 
in his account as to what is due him on account of wages and 
materials furnished for the fort, the block house and its appur- 
tenances, as well as to what was contributed by him toward 
presents for the Indians and the ransom of prisoners from the 
Esopus. Also that on the date aforesaid the building and com- 
pletion of the aforesaid block house and the appurtenances 
thereof will be publicly let to the lowest bidder. 

The commissary and officer, Johan de Deckere, requests that 
for so far as he is exercising the duties of secretary here, he may 
on that account and for the keeping of the minutes or court pro- 
ceedings receive for each part of the work a reasonable salary 
and this provisionally. 

The foregoing request being examined, it is flatly rejected by 
Rut Jacobsz and Volckert Jansz and laid aside by the other 
members of the court until the arrival of Mr Stuyvesant. 

J. Deckere 

1656 
Sander Lenrse 
Frans Barentsz Pastoors 
VoLCKART Jansz 
RuTGER Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



250 Fori Orange and Beverw^cli 

Tuesday, February 8, 1656 

Presentihus omnibus 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Claes Teunisz. Default. 

Maritge Dyckmans, plaintiff, against Abram Pietersz Vos- 
burch, defendant, requesting a new writ of execution upon a 
judgment of this honorable court dated the 27th of April last. 

The court, having heard the defendant, grants the requested 
writ of execution and orders the defendant to pay the sum of 
H. 100:- within 14 days, putting off the further execution for 
the time of six weeks. 

[248] Frans Barentsz Pastoor, plaintiff, against Abraham 
Pietersz Vosburch, defendant, demanding payment of the sum 
of fl. 214:6:- in beavers for beer delivered, according to balance 
of accounts. Also that the defendant be condemned to pay in 
addition the sum of fl. 60:- for so much advance [in price] on 
thirty beavers not included, for which the plaintiff has been 
obliged to accept and receive fl. 243 : 1 6 in seawan, at eight 
guilders the beaver, all according to the contract thereof. 

The defendant, admitting the aforesaid debt of fl. 214:6:— 
says nevertheless that he is not held to pay the same otherwise 
than for one third part in beavers, which he agrees to do, claim- 
ing that this is sufficient and that in case of refusal and in virtue 
of the said offer he is not further or otherwise liable and demand- 
ing that all further claims and the fl.60:- demanded [by the 
plaintiff] be denied. 

The plaintiff persists in his demand. The defendant likewise 
in his. 

The court, before rendering a decision in the matter, refer 
parties to Goossen Gerritsen and Willem Bout, referees. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, plaintiff, 
against Tomas Paul. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hans Coenraets. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, to proceed with 
the case. 

The defendant offers to declare under oath that he did not 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 251 

sell any sugar bun to the savage, as stated by the plaintiff, nor 
that he has any knowledge that such took place at his house. 

The case is dismissed. 

[249] Idem, plaintiff, against the same defendant, demand- 
ing that the defendant be fined fl. 12:- because a week ago 
today a lightweight loaf was found at the defendant's contrary 
to the ordinance made with reference thereto. 

The court, having heard the defendant, condemn him to pay 
the fine demanded. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Daniel Ringhout, defendant, on 
account of the same offense. 

The court fine him as above. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hendrik Jansz, the cowherd, defendant 
in detention. 

Whereas the defendant, or person in detention, acknowledges 
that he wrote and made a lampoon, which being read is found 
to be slanderous and defamatory, the plaintiff persists in his 
conclusion or else demands that the defendant be condemned to 
pay a pecuniary fine. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay a fine or penalty of 
20 guilders and in addition 6 guilders for jailer's fee and other 
expenses. 

Idem, plaintiff, having attached certain house rent and a house 
standing here in the fort, belonging to Aelbert, the Noorman, in 
regard to which the defendant ^^ makes complaint. 

He concludes that the attachment, as being duly and lawfully 
made, shall hold good until the termination of the case. Further- 
more, that the defendant shall be condemned to pay first a sum 
of fifteen times six guilders and in addition a sum of twenty-five 
guilders, all because the defendant on Sunday a week ago 
together with fifteen other persons were found holding separate 



^^ Overgedaechde, meaning a defendant who is summoned to appear 
before a court other than that to whose jurisdiction he would ordinarily 
be subject. In this case, Albert Andriessen Bradt, the Noorman, being 
a tenant of the patroon, apparently claimed that the court of Beverwyck 
had no jurisdiction over him. 



252 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

divine service at the house of Willem Juriaensz, contrary to the 
ordinance passed against it. 

Default w^ith decree granting the attachment. 
[250] Tomas Chambers, plaintiff, against Jacob Jansz Stol, 
defendant, to make oath as requested. 

The defendant, having taken the requested oath, declares 
that he and Johanna de Hulter, in regard to the expense of hav- 
ing their grain thrashed at the Esopus, had agreed with the afore- 
said Chambers on the following conditions, namely, that as soon 
as each of the three received his or her grain, or the same was 
thrashed, each party was to pay his own expenses, but that 
nothing was said or agreed upon as to each of them bearing, 
share and share alike, the total expense of thrashing the grain, 
except that it was agreed upon that the cost of shipping would 
be borne and paid by each in proportion to the quantity of his 
grain. So help him God. 

Interrogatories upon which, at the request of 
Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, 
is to be heard and examined Lambert van Valcken- 
burch, sergeant of the burgher company, being sum- 
moned by the court to give testimony to the truth. 
Whether he, the witness. Answer, Yes. 

yesterday, a week ago, in the 
evening, was not molested on 
the public highway because he, 
as sergeant, by order of his 
captain, wanted to take one 
Willem Hap to the guard 
house? 

Who the aforesaid persons Declares that he saw but 

were and how many there one person, without knowing 
were of them? who he was or being acquainted 

with him, only, that he heard 
that it must have been a certain 
tailor, the brother-in-law of 
Dirk Bentsingh. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 253 

Whether he, or they, did Declares that the aforesaid 

not come for him with bare person did as stated in the 

knives, intending to attack him, question, 
in order to wrest the said Hap 
from his hands? 

Who else were present there. Declares that of the persons 

what else happened in connec- who were present he does not 

tion with the said molestation know a single one and that he 

and how the same ended? took the said Hap to the guard 

house. 

Thus done and declared on the date above written. 
Preseniibus ui supra, 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 
Sander Lenrsen 
Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 

Tuesday, February 15, 1656 

Presentlhus omnibus 

Marcelis Jansz, plaintiff, against Daniel Ringhout, defendant, 
about payment of fl. 19:4:- for the excise on three half aams 
of brandy on account of tapsters' excise. 

The court, having heard the parties, denies the plaintiff's 
demand. 

[252] Frans Barentsen Pastoor, plaintiff, against Abram 
Pietersen Vosburch, defendant. 

Default 

Tierck Claesz, plaintiff, against Tomas Paul, defendant. 

The court, having heard the parties, refers them to Jan 
Tomasz and Cornelis Teunisz Bos, to reconcile parties if 
possible. 



254 Fort Orange and BeveriPijc^ 

Jacob Jansz Schermerhoom, having order and power of 
attorney from Cornelis Boon, residing at Dordrecht in Holland, 
and in that capacity plaintiff against Jacob Loserik, defendant, 
^bout payment of the sum of fl. 1065:6:-, in satisfaction of the 
second payment on the house bought of the said Boon by the 
defendant in the month of July of last year, 1^55. 

The defendant requests delay to recover the amount from 
Steven Jansz. 

Granted by the court. 

Jacob Loserik, plaintiff, against Steven Jansz, defendant. 
Default. 

Sander Leendertsz, plaintiff, against Tierk Claesz, defendant, 
about payment of fl. 25 :- in compensation for a goat killed by 
the defendant. 

The court refers the parties to Jan Verbeecq and Jan Tomasz, 
referees. 

[253] Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex 
officio plaintiff, against Hendrik Jansz, cowherd, defendant, 
demanding that the defendant be fined fl. 100 for having this 
day a week ago drawn a knife on the person of Jacob Loserik. 
The defendant admits having drawn a knife, but [says] that 
he wounded no one. 

The plaintiff demands sentence as above. 
The court takes the matter under advisement. 
Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hap, defendant. Default. 
Idem, plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, defendant, demanding 
that he be fined three hundred guilders for having this day a 
week ago attempted to hurt the person of Hendrik Jansz, cow- 
herd, with a knife, in such a way that the stab made two holes 
and broke the knife, which was left in the coat of the aforesaid 
Hendrik Jansz, and that furthermore he threw him backwards 
into the water. 

The defendant denies the deed but requests nevertheless a 
copy of the plaintiff's charge. 
The plaintiff agrees. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 255 

Idem, plaintiff, against Aelbert, the Noorman, defendant,^ 
to have the second default entered against him. 

The plaintiff, in view of the defendant's failure to appear, 
requests the second default. 

The court grants the request. 

[254] Rut Jacobsz, our fellow member of the court, having 
requested permission to make or suspend a water wheel for a 
small mill in the kill behind his dwelling house, his request is 
granted. 

Volckert Jansz and Jan Tomasz, representing also Pieter 
Hertgers, having requested that the five or six feet of ground of 
the public road included within the inclosure of the lot on which 
their brewery stands, which have been provisionally granted to 
them by Commissary Johan de Deckere and Rutger Jacobsz, 
may be confirmed [to them] by the court as a body, their request 
is unanimously granted until further order to the contrary. 

Upon the remonstrance and petition of Jochem, the baker, 
that the resolution heretofore passed in condemnation of the 
thatched roof of Willem Juriaensz and the order given for its 
removal may be executed, it is upon further examination of the 
matter and in consideration of the lack of means of the aforesaid 
Willem Juriaensz decided to delegate the Hon. Commissary 
Johan de Deckere, together with Frans Barentsz Pastoor and 
Dirk Jansz Croon, magistrates, to persuade and request the 
neighbors of the aforesaid Willem Juriaensz to make a voluntary 
loan and contribution in money, as much as each one is pleased 
to give, to replace the condemned thatched roof by one of 
boards, in order thereby, as far as possible, to prevent all danger 
of fire. The persons who contribute any money shall as security 
for the restitution thereof have a mortgage on the house or its 
improvement, the contributors after the death of the said Willem 
Juriaensz to be reimbursed from time to time out of the house 
rent in proportion to their respective contribution and in case the 



^Albert Andriessen Bradt. 



256 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

present owner of the lot of the aforesaid house, or the person 
who may acquire his title, [255] should wish to tear down the 
said house after the death of the aforesaid Willem Juriaensz, he 
shall be holden to reimburse them as aforesaid. 

The aforesaid proposition having been made by the said dele- 
gates to the aforesaid persons, they have promised to contribute 
to the aforesaid purpose as follows: 

Jochem, the baker, has promised to furnish thirteen boards and 

the roof timbers 
Sander Leendertsz, 12 boards and eight guilders' worth of nails 
Rutger Jacobs, 5 boards 
Andries Herpertsz, 8 boards 
Jacob, the baker, 10 guilders 
Jan van Housen, 25 boards 
Jan Tomasz, privately, 12 boards 
The same, jointly with Volckert Jansz and Pieter Hertgers, 15 

guilders 
The deacons [blank] 

For the restitution of all of which aforesaid moneys the com- 
missary and magistrates, by virtue of their authority, bind and 
mortgage the aforesaid house and the improvements thereof for 
the benefit of the aforesaid persons. 

The three ordinances sent by the Hon. General and the 
Supreme Council of New Netherland to the Commissary and 
the magistrates and received by them on the 9th of this current 
month of February, being read and examined, it is decided to 
publish two of them relating to the combination and concentra- 
tion of the separate dwellings and the farming of the fur trade. 
The third, relating to the excise, or the payment of the 20th 
penny on slaughtered cattle, hogs, sheep and goats, it is for 
pregnant reasons considered inadvisable to publish or post, it 
being apparent that at this juncture of time and on account of 
the excessive expense [256] to which the community is put in 
repairing the fort, the block house and other works thereabout. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



257 



and in ransoming the prisoners, it would only cause complaint, 
opposition and friction, which at the first opportunity when the 
river is open will be submitted and brought to the attention of 
the aforesaid Hon. General and Supreme Council. 

Interrogatories on which at the request of Johan 
de Deckere, commissary and officer here, Jan Gou 
and Willem Berck are to heard and examined 
under oath, they being legally summoned to give 
testimony to the truth. 

First, whether they, the wit- They declare in conformity 



[with the question]. 



nesses, on Tuesday last were 
not at the house and tavern of 
Baefge Pieters, and whether 
there were not also present 
Jacob Loserik and Hendrik 
Jansz, cow herd? 

Whether some dispute did They declare. Yes, and that 

not arise between the aforesaid the dispute arose because he, 

Loserik and Hendrik Jansz Hendrik, touched the said 

and about what? Loserik's body, at least that 

they saw no other cause or 

reason. 

Also, whether the aforesaid They declare that the said 

quarreling persons did not draw Loserik first went out of the 

their knives and attempted to door and was immediately fol~ 

hurt or wound each other and lowed by the said Hendrik; 

M^hether the said Hendrik that they both drew their 

Jansz in the course of the fight knives and that the said Lose- 

did not receive a cut in his rik thrusting at his opponent 

thumb and afterwards a stab struck his leather coat and that 

in his coat, in such a way that the knife broke into pieces, but 

the knife of the said Loserik that they do not know how, nor 

broke into pieces? in what way, the said Hendrik 

received the cut in his thumb. 
9 



258 Fort Orange and Beverivy^ck 

[257] Finally, what else They declare that the said 
they have to testify in regard Loserik, on delivering the 
to this? thrust, ran up to the said Hend- 

rick and pushed him back- 
w^ards into the vv^ater. 

Thus declared and deposed on the date above written. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 

Sander Lenrsen 

Frans Barentsen Pastoor 

VOLCKART JaNSZ 
RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Tuesday, February 22, 1656 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Stoll, defendant, about the fine of 
one hundred guilders, because the defendant yesterday three 
weeks ago, being the last of January, drew a knife on the ser- 
geant of the burgher guard. 

The defendant says that he has no knowledge of his drawing 
the knife. 

The plaintiff agrees to prove the same. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Aelbert Andriesz, defendant, to 
answer the complaint and conclusion brought against the defend- 
ant on the 8th of this month. 

The defendant admits the substance of the complaint and 
offers to pay twenty-five guilders, but refuses the further 
demands. 

The plaintiff refuses the offer and persists in his complaint and 
conclusion. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 259 

The court having heard the defendant and his plea and exam- 
ined the ordinance, condemn the defendant to pay the demanded 
fine [258] of fl. I 15:—, declaring the attached house and house 
rent subject to execution as security for the fine. 

Volckert Jansz has a note made of the fact that he does not 
concern himself with the aforesaid case or sentence. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, defendant. 

The plaintiff persists in his demand by way of replication. 

The defendant agrees to secure evidence. 

Jacob Loserik, plaintiff, against Steven Jansz, defendant in 
regard to security. 

He demands that the defendant be ordered to guarantee him 
against all loss and damage and release him from all costs which 
may result from the suit brought against him, the plaintiff, on 
the last court day by Jacob Jansz Schermerhoorn. 

The defendant requests an adjournment of eight days or until 
the river is open. 

Granted by the court. 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Claes Teunisz, defendant, 
requesting execution of a certain judgment in the sum of fl.201 :— 
given by the court of the colony of Rensselaerswyck, declining 
settlement. 

The court grants the desired execution, but at the defendant's 
request nevertheless suspends the same for six weeks. 

[259] Pieter Ryverdingh, plaintiff, against Jacob Adriaensz, 
wheelwright, defendant. 

Default 

J. DE DeCKERE 
1656 

Sander Lenrsen 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



260 Fori Orange and Beverwyck 

Tuesday, March 14, 1656 
Preseniibus: 

J. de Decker Andries Herp*sz 

Rutger Jacobs V. Jansz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, plaintiff, 
against Claes Jansz, defendant, about the fine of fl.6:- because 
the defendant on Sunday two weeks ago was found sitting in 
the tavern of Herman Bamboes, drinking. 

Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Frans Pietersz for the same cause. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay a fine of fl.3 :- and 
12 stivers for costs. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Poulus Lambertsz, defendant, as 
above. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Claes Ribse, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hendrik Jansz, cow herd, defendant, 
asking that the court give its opinion. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay a fine of fl.20:— to 
the officer and ten guilders for the bench. 

The plaintiff protests against the above sentence as far as the 
ten guilders are concerned. 

[260] Idem, plaintiff, against the wife of Jan with the beard. 

Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Annitge Lamberts. Default. 

Jacob Jansz Flodder, plaintiff, against Margariet Slechten- 
horst, to show cause why the defendant caused plaintiff's tiles 
to be attached, or else, to have the attachment vacated. 

Default. 

J. DE Deckere 
1656 

Sander Lenrsen 
Frans Barentsz Pastoors 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 261 

Tuesday, April 4, 1656 
Presentthus: 

J. de Deckere F. Barentsz A. Herperlsz 

S. Leenderts R. Jacobsz V. Jansz 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, plaintiff, 
against Baefgie Pieters, because the defendant last Sunday a 
week ago treated him, the plaintiff, very badly and by closing 
her door interfered with and impeded him in the exercise of his 
office, wherefore the plaintiff demands that the defendant be con- 
demned to pay a fine of fifty guilders for the benefit of the poor 
and that in addition she be enjoined from exercising her trade 
for the space of six weeks and [condemned to pay] the costs. 

The court, having heard the defendant, condemned her to 
pay a fine of fl.25 :- within twenty-four hours. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Poulus Lambertsz, defendant, about 
the fine of fl.6:— because on Sunday February 21 he was found 
during divine service in the tavern of Herman Bamboes. 

The court having heard the confession of the defendant con- 
demn him to pay a fine of fl.3 : 1 2 :— 

Idem, plaintiff, against Claes Jansz, as above. 

The defendant agrees to pay fl.3 :— 

[261] Idem, plaintiff, against Jan Maertens, alias Wever. 

Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Herman Bamboes. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Jansz Stoll. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Annetge Lamberts, about the fine of 
fl. 12:— because the defendant has spoken and acted very badly 
toward him, the plaintiff. 

The court, having heard the defendant, condemn her to pay 
a penalty or fine of fl.4:4:- 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik. Default 

Idem, plaintiff, against Piet Bout, defendant 



262 Fort Orange and Beverfv^ck 

The plaintiff says that it is the truth that the defendant last 
Saturday a week ago at the house of Herman Bamboes com- 
mitted great insolence, disturbance and violence, drew his knife 
and challenged and dared every one, especially the aforesaid 
Bamboes, to thrust and cut in such a way that the said Bamboes 
was forced to complain about it to him, the plaintiff, as officer, 
wherefore the plaintiff demands that the defendant be condemned 
to pay a fine of two hundred guilders. 

The defendant says that he was pestered and teased by every 
one and requests to have a copy of the complaint. 

The plaintiff accepts the aforesaid confession in his favor, but 
grants nevertheless the requested copy. 

P^ Colebrantsz, plaintiff, against Moy Aeltgie.^^ Default. 

[262] There appeared in court Cornelis Barentsz Slecht, 
hereby certifying at the request of Joffrou Johanna de Hulter, 
widow of the late Johan de Hulter, that it is true that he, the 
appearer, during the late troubles with the savages on the part 
of the aforesaid Joffrou has delivered on account and for the 
behoof of Tomas Chambers, first, 1 50 lb. of butter, five schepels 
of flour and four traces. Also that with one Pieter Bruynen, 
also a servant of the said Joffrou, he has attended and served 
at the house of the aforesaid Chambers, as is confirmed and 
corroborated by the aforesaid Bruynen, also appearing here, and 
that he served in the capacity of a cook at the house aforesaid. 
May God Almighty help him, the appearer. Done on the date 
above written. 

Sander Lenrsen 

Frans Barentsen Pastoors 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 

»° Fair Alida. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-} 656 263 

Tuesday, April 18, 1656 

Presentibus omnibus 
preter A, Herpertsz 

We, the undersigned, declare hereby that we offer ourselves 
as sureties and principal debtors for the payment of such sums 
of money as have been agreed to by the honorable court of this 
fort for the building of the block-house church and the wages 
thereof, binding ourselves therefor according to law. Done as 
above. 

Herman Bastiaensz, plaintiff, against Claes Jacobsz, defend- 
ant, about payment of wages earned. 

The court, having heard the parties, refer them to Stoffel 
Jansz and Claes Jansz, referees. 

A petition being read of the bakers, requesting permission to 
charge and receive 18 stivers for an ordinary wheaten loaf of 
eight pounds and five stivers for a white loaf of one pound, their 
second request is granted. 

[263] There appeared Pieter Hertgers and Cornelis Teunisz 
Bos, who declared that they offered themselves as sureties for 
the performance and fulfilment of all the conditions on which 
Stoffel Jansz and Jan Roelofsz, in accordance with the specifica- 
tions and by public bid have agreed to build the block-house 
church, binding themselves thereto according to law. Done as 
above. 

We, the undersigned, hereby declare that we offer ourselves 
as sureties and principal debtors for the payment of such sums 
of money as the honorable court have promised to Stoffel Jansz 
and Jan Roelofsz for building the block-house church and the 
wages thereof, binding ourselves thereto as by law provided. 
Done as above. 

Sander Lenrsen 

Jan Verbeecq, Jan Tomasz, Jochem Keteluyn, Auckes 
Bruynsen and Arien Jansz from Leyden are ordered to build on 
their vacant lots within one month, or at least to put them in 



264 Fori Orange and Beveriv^cJi 

such shape that the work can to all appearances not be stopped 
but must necessarily proceed, on pain of being deprived of their 
lots which shall be placed at the disposal of the court, to which 
end an inspection will then be made. All this without prejudice 
to the rights already acquired or to be acquired by the officer. 
It is furthermore decided that all those who this day have not 
registered their lots in conformity with the order brought to 
every one's knowledge by the notices that have been posted, shall 
be and remain deprived and divested of the same. Done as 
above. 

Tjerck Claesz requests permission to have the lot of Jacob 
Jansz Plodder. Granted. 

[264] We, the undersigned, promise hereby, each in his own 
capacity, that we shall indemnify and hold the aforesaid sureties, 
Sander Leendertsz and Philip P"^. Schuyler harmless in regard 
to all costs and damages resulting from their surety bond inserted 
above. Therefore we submit ourselves as counter sureties, bind- 
ing therefor our properties and those of our inhabitants, none 
excepted, submitting the same to the control of all courts and 
judges. Done as above. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 

Frans Barentsz Pastoors 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 

Extraordinary Session, Wednesday, April 19, 1656 
Presentibus omnibus 

P'. Hertgers, Jan Tomasz and Volckert Jansz, plaintiffs and 
parties arresting, against Herman Bamboes, defendant and per- 
son arrested. 

They demand that the arrest, etc. and furthermore that the 
defendant be condemned to pay the sum of fl. 1 408 :-, one-third 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 265 

part to be paid in beavers or grain, on account of the delivery 
of beer, according to the tally kept thereof, declining settlement. 

The defendant admits the debt, except what he paid on it, 
and requests that payment of the balance may be delayed until 
the coming month of June, offering meanwhile to leave as a 
pledge and deliver into the hands of the plaintiffs the sum of one 
thousand guilders, upon condition that if he, the defendant, does 
not make any payment before that time, they, the plaintiffs, shall 
be at liberty to satisfy themselves out of the aforesaid money 
and that in case he make payment meanwhile, they, the plain- 
tiffs, shall be bound to deliver to him, the defendant, one hundred 
beavers in lieu of the aforesaid one thousand guilders. 

[265] The plaintiffs accept the offer as it stands, provided 
that the thousand guilders be this day delivered into their hands. 

The court accordingly condemn the defendant to pay the sum 
demanded, provided that he may deduct therefrom what he shall 
prove having paid thereon. Furthermore, they order him to 
deliver this day the thousand guilders offered by him into the 
hands of the plaintiffs, under the conditions specified and afore- 
mentioned, and condemn him to pay one-half of the costs of 
this court. Actum ut supra. 

J. DE DeCKERE 

1656 
Sander Lenrsen 
Frans Barentsz Pastoors 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



266 Fort Orange and BeverTvycJ; 

Tuesday, April 25, 1656 

Presentihus omnibus 
preter V. Jansz 

Johan de Deckere, ex officio plaintiff, against Juriaen, the 
glazier. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Tellier, defendant. 

The plaintiff says and it is the truth that the defendant in 
the week before Easter did not hesitate to close and fence off 
at both ends with boards and palisades a certain common or pub- 
lic road, alley, or foot path, situated opposite the house of Abram 
Pietersz Vosburch, going to the river, whereby the same was 
made useless, notwithstanding the fact that the defendant, 
through the court messenger was forbidden and prohibited from 
doing so by the said Vosburch, as the party most directly con- 
cerned. Also that upon inspection by this honorable court and 
survey made by the surveyor it was found that the aforesaid 
defendant had inclosed within the fence of his garden about four 
and a half feet of ground of the aforesaid foot path or public 
road from the wagon road to the river and consequently lessened 
its width [266] aside from the fact that the defendant has 
encroached at least a foot or two along the public road outside 
of the old palisades and thereby narrowed the public wagon 
road. All of which being seen and considered by this honorable 
court and the ground brief of the defendant's garden being also 
examined, it clearly appeared therefrom that the defendant had 
unjustly taken possession of the aforesaid four feet and a half of 
land as well as the one or two feet of ground and added them 
to his garden in bad faith. The surveyor being thereupon, with 
the advise and consent of the magistrates who were present, 
ordered by the plaintiff to saw off and tear down the fence or 
boards at the end of the defendant's garden, according to the 
tenor of the ground brief, the defendant began to address and 
assail not only the plaintiff but also the magistrates in very 
angry, abusive and threatening terms, saying in particular that 
it would end in killing, putting himself with an angry face not 
only in a posture of defense, but actually becoming agressive, 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1656 267 

trying either to break the saw or by force or violence to wrest 
it from the hands of the surveyor and thereby as much as was 
in his power to prevent the carrying out of the order and com- 
mand given to the surveyor, and openly notifying the court that 
force and violence were used against him by the said sawing 
and that he would complain thereof. To this must be added 
that the defendant some time ago has not hesitated to state even 
in court that the building of the block-house, or certain pro- 
ceedings by the court concerning it, would cry to Heaven for 
vengeance; all of which things were spewed out, spoken, or 
attested in the face of the court, or in the face or presence of 
the plaintiff and the magistrates while they were exercising their 
functions and therefore representing the supreme authorities of 
this province, and consequently in the highest degree injurious, 
intolerable and of evil consequence. The plaintiff, in the capac- 
ity above mentioned, demands therefore [267] that the 
defendant shall immediately and without the formality of a 
regular trial, as in this matter there is no need of any evidence 
or testimony and no further investigation is required, be con- 
demned to pay a fine of fl.600:— 

The defendant gave for answer that he did not care anything 
about the aforesaid matter and thereupon left immediately. 

The plaintiff persists in his complaint and demand. 

The defendant having again come into court has openly 
accused and told the president, Johan de Deckere, that he had 
forcibly deprived him of the aforesaid foot path or alley and 
given it to another person. 

The president protests against this slanderous charge and 
demands honorable and profitable reparation, intending other- 
wise to bring suit and to prosecute it where and in such way as 
he shall see fit. 

The court order the officer to furnish the defendant with a 
copy of the aforesaid complaint. 

Fop Jansz, carpenter, plaintiff, against Rutger Jacobsz, 
defendant, about payment of the sum of fl.42 :- for ten a half 
days' wages at Yz beaver a day. 



268 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

The court, having heard the parties, condemn the defendant 
to pay the sum of fl.42:— 

Rutger Jacobs, Goossen Gerritsz and Teunis Dirxse, 
appointed by order of the court curators of the estate and prop- 
erty of the late Rut Arentsz, and in that capacity plaintiffs 
against Johannes Dyckman, in charge of the administration of 
the effects, moneys and income of the said estate, defendant, 
about payment of the sum of 11.261 :4:- which he, Dyckman, 
according to his own statement and account spent less than he 
received. 

The wife of the aforesaid Dyckman, appearing for him on 
account of his disability, says that she has no knowledge of the 
matter or of the money and therefore can not make answer. 

[268] The plaintiffs persist in their demand. 

The court having examined the list or account in the afore- 
said Dyckman's own handwriting, from which it appears that 
there was a balance of 11. 261 :4:- left, condemn him to pay the 
sum demanded. 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, defendant, to have him present 
his evidence and to have sentence pronounced. 

The court taking the matter under advisement, meanwhile 
refer the parties to referees, each party to choose one. 

Frans Barents Pastoor, having power of attorney from Mar- 
celis Jansz, excise master, plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, former 
farmer of the excise, defendant, about payment of the sum of 
fl. 1 83 :- on account of some remnants of wine, beer and brandy 
which at the expiration of the defendant's term of service were 
found in the cellars or houses of the tapsters according to the 
gager's certificates. 

The court, having heard the parties, holds the matter under 
advisement, 

Teunis Slingerlant is at his request granted a garden. 

J. DE Deckere 
1656 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 269 

[269] Extraordinary Session, Monday, May 1, 1656 

In the place of the retiring magistrates, Sander Leendertsz, 
Frans Barentsz Pastoor and Volckert Jansz, according to the 
copy of the resolution of the Hon. Director General and Coun- 
cil of New Netherland, Jacob Schermerhoorn and Philip P". 
Schuyler, of the double number nominated, have been chosen and 
confirmed as ordinary magistrates and Goossen Gerritsz as extra- 
ordinary magistrate, who, being summoned by the court, have 
taken the following oath of fidelity before the commissary, except 
Goosen Gerritsz, who with various excuses, such as they were, 
declined to do so. 

We, the undersigned, being chosen magistrates of the bench 
of justice of Fort Orange and Beverwyck, promise and swear 
in the presence of God Almighty and our fellow members, that 
we shall help to do true equity and justice between man and 
man and furthermore cause to execute and help to promote all 
matters relating to justice or administration according to the best 
of our knowledge, and in all respects conduct ourselves loyally 
and faithfully toward the Lords States General of the United 
Netherlands, the Honorable Directors of the Chartered West 
India Company and the Hon. Director General and Council 
of New Netherland, with the further promise that we shall help 
to maintain here the Reformed Religion according to God'o 
Word and the regulations of the Synod of Dordrecht and not 
publicly tolerate any sect. So help us God Almighty. 

After having been congratulated the aforesaid Schermerhoorn 
and Philip P^"^. have this day taken their seats. 

1270] The retiring magistrates are released from their oath 
and thanked for their faithful services and the performance of 
their official duties, with promise that with respect to their honor- 
arium of fl.l50:- a year, their claims will when the time is con- 
venient and the treasuiy supplied with funds be taken into con- 
sideration together with those of the present and future 
magistrates and be paid. 



270 Fort Orange and Bevervi>])ck 

After deliberation it is decided and concluded that the mag- 
istrates who retire at the end of each year shall for the space of 
one year after the expiration of their term of office be exempt 
and relieved from attending the usual burgher watch, but that 
nevertheless, in case of need and when commanded, they shall 
be bound and liable to take part in all extraordinary rounds 
and do guard duty the same as other burghers. This resolution 
will be communicated and made known to the military council 
in order that they may hereafter govern and regulate themselves 
accordingly. Actum ut supra. 

On the second of May Goossen Gerritsz has taken the afore- 
said oath of fidelity before the Commissary, 

^^ The above resolution, providing that the retiring magistrates, 
both the ordinary and extraordinary ones, shall for the space of 
one year be free and exempt from the usual rounds and guard 
duty (except under pregnant circumstances when the public wel- 
fare and need require it), is confirmed and approved by us, so 
that the captain and lieutenant and the lower officers of the 
burgher company are hereby ordered to let them enjoy this 
exemption. Given over our own and usual signature, this day, 
the 8th of November 1656. 

P. Stuyvesant 



[271] Tuesday, May 2, 1656 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, defendant, requesting a decision. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides and having 
examined the evidence submitted by them, condemn the defend- 
ant to pay a fine of seven and a half beavers, to be paid within 
twenty-four hours. 



The following lines are in the handwriting of Peter Stuyvesant. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 



271 



Interrogatories on which at the request of Johan 
de Deckere, commissary and officer here, made ex 
officio, is to be heard and examined Juriaen Jansz, 
glazier, being summoned by the court to give testi- 
mony to the truth. 

Declares, Yes. 



Whether he, the witness, on 
the 25th of March last was 
not at the house or tavern of 
Herman Bamboes and whether 
there was not also present 
there one Piet Bont, who 
sought to make trouble and to 
revive an old dispute with him, 
the said P*. Bont saying: " It 
cost me once nine beavers and 
I shall not stop even if it 
should cost me ten beavers 
more .•' 

Who else were present 
there ? 



Declares that among others 
Hendrik Jansz, the cowherd, 
Jan Roelofsz and Jacob 
Loserik were present there. 

Declares, Yes. 



Declares, Yes, but as to the 



Whether he, Piet Bont, did 
not draw a knife and wanted 
to cut him, the witness, with it? 

Fourth, whetTier he, the wit- 
ness, when the said P*. Bont questions in regard to Roe- 
tried to hurt him and was stab- lofsz, he did not see what took 
bing at him, did not draw back place but heard about it. 
and retreat to the back room 
and whether Jan Roelofsz 
thereupon did not say to said 
Bont: "You act like a 
rascal." Also whether he, 
P^ Bont, then did not try to 



272 Fort Orange and Beveriv^c^ 

attack the said Jan Roelofsz 
and if the said Jan Roelofsz, 
picking up a wood ax and 
hacking in the direction of 
P'. Bont's body, did not strike 
the door post? 

There appeared Herman Bamboes, who after the above ques- 
tions had been read to them, declared that he agreed with the 
statements made therein and that they were in all respects in 
accordance with the truth. 

Thus done and declared on the date above written. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan Roelofsz, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Hendrik Jansz, cowherd, defendant. 
Default. 

Frans Barentsz Pastoor, plaintiff, against Jacob Loserik, 
defendant, to request that judgment be pronounced. 

The court refers the parties to referees, one to be chosen by 
each party. 

Barent Aelbertsz is granted a garden behind the fort, marked 
No. 16, in with 4 rods, in length 8 rods. 

Jan van Housen, appearing before the court, requests a lot on 
the hill to build thereon a house. 

After deliberation his request is granted and a lot shall be 
assigned to him, for which he is to pay to the court, for the bene- 
fit of the public, the sum of sixty guilders. 



[273] Tuesday, May 30, 1656 

Johan de Deckere, ex officio plaintiff, against Jan, the weaver, 
defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Tellier, defendant, requesting 
sentence. 

The defendant requests that the plaintiff be ordered to sign 
the complaint which he caused to be delivered to him. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 273 

The plaintiff, declining the aforesaid request as being irrele- 
vant and impertinent, again requests that sentence be pro- 
nounced, the more so as he can produce no other witnesses than 
the members of the court themselves and the case therefore is 
not of a nature to follow the ordinary course of proceedings, 
much less to be held up and kept pending by reason of the afore- 
said frivolous request. 

The court order the defendant to present all his evidence (if 
he thinks he has any) on the next court day, in order that the 
court may then make such disposition in the matter as it shall 
judge proper; in default whereof judgment shall be rendered 
de piano. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jan Roelofsz, defendant. Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Telier, in a case of atrocious 
slander. 

The plaintiff says and it is the truth that the defendant has 
not hesitated on Tuesday, the 25th of April last, to cast in his 
teeth in open court the very villainous, hateful and slanderous 
accusation that he had forcibly deprived him, the defendant, of 
and given to another person a certain alley or foot path, which 
the court in the week before Easter in accordance with the 
description in the defendant's own ground brief had decided not 
to belong to him, but to be a common alley or foot path; which 
is [274] so wide of the truth that he, the plaintiff, turning the 
aforesaid accusation around, can in accordance with the afore- 
said decision of the court state on good authority that on the con- 
trary he, the defendant, in contempt and disobedience of his 
lawful superiors has in the most unjust, violent and forcible way 
tried to possess himself of the said foot path and in bad faith 
to fence off and use the same, in regard to which he, the plain- 
tiff, has instituted a special action in this honorable court. The 
plaintiff, therefore, considering himself in the highest degree 
injured, affronted and wounded in his honor, reputation and office 
by the aforesaid false and impudent libel, slander and accusa- 
tion, and being consequently forced for the sake of reparation to 
resort to and make use of the means and ways of justice ; 



274 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

Demands that the defendant shall be condemned to make 
honorable and pecuniary reparation for the aforesaid villainous 
and false slander, namely, honorable reparation by appearing in 
court and there bareheaded and with folded hands and on 
bended knees praying God, the court and the plaintiff, if he 
desires to be present, for forgiveness, confessing that he has 
unjustly and contrary to the truth made the aforesaid accusation 
and that he knows nothing of the plaintiff but what is honorable 
and virtuous and that he has in the aforesaid particular exer- 
cised his functions correctly and therefore that he is heartily sorry 
about it all, but promises never to do the like again; pecuniary 
reparation, by paying to the plaintiff, to be distributed by him 
among the poor, the sum of six hundred guilders, he, the plain- 
tiff, being satisfied to declare under solemn oath that he would 
not care to suffer the said or similar insult again for the afore- 
said or any larger amount, [275] demanding costs or other 
[penalty]. 

The defendant persists in his previous statement. 

The plaintiff asks that sentence be pronounced. 

The court [decides] as in the other case preceding this. 

Jacob, the baker, plaintiff, having attached certain eighteen 
beavers belonging to Jan Gou, and at present in the custody of 
Jochem, the baker, defendant. 

He demands that the attachment [be sustained] and further- 
more that judgment be given in the sum of fl.48 :- for the recov- 
ery of money loaned. 

Default and attachment sustained. 

Goossen Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Abram P"^". Vosburch, 
defendant. Default. 

Arien Symonsz, plaintiff, against Herman Bamboes, defend- 
ant, about the payment of 50 beavers, being the balance of a 
larger sum due for the purchase of certain wines and other goods, 
according to the account thereof, the plaintiff being ready, upon 
the payment aforesaid, to restore to the defendant the seawan 
that was left with him as security. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 275 

The court, having heard the confession of the defendant, give 
judgment for the number of beavers demanded. 

Herman Bamboes, plaintiff, against Margriet Clabborts, 
defendant, about payment of the sum of fl. 82 : 1 7 :- for beer 
and other [hquors] fetched [at his tavern], according to the 
account thereof. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides and also 
the solemn declaration of the plaintiff, give judgment against the 
defendant for the sum of fl. 71 :17:- 

[276] Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer, defendant. 
Default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Carsten, the Noorman, defendant, 
about payment of the sum of fl. 11:19:— 

The defendant admits the debt and requests a delay of four 
weeks. 

The court consequently gives judgment, granting the delay 
requested. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Daniel Ringhout, defendant. Default. 

P^ Ruyverdingh, plaintiff, against Jan de Cuyper. Default. 

Jan Peeck, plaintiff, against Maria Dyckmans, for the pay- 
ment of fl. 1627:- on account of the purchase of certain two 
houses standing here in the fort, with a garden thereto belong- 
ing, bid on and bought by the defendant's husband at public 
auction, declining settlement. Otherwise, the plaintiff asks per- 
mission again to take possession of the aforesaid two houses and 
to offer and sell the same at public auction to the loss or benefit 
of the aforesaid [defendant's] husband and his sureties. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides, grants the 
plaintiff permission to take possession of the aforesaid two houses 
and garden and to sell them at public auction to the loss or 
benefit of the aforesaid Dyckman and his sureties. 

Jacob Loosdrecht, plaintiff, against Steven Jansz. Default. 

[277] Cornelis Teunisz Bos, having power of attorney from 
Jacob Adriaensz, plaintiff, against Cornelis Segersz, defendant, 



276 Fori Orange and Beverrvy^ck 

for the sum of fl. 537:- by balance of account of the purchase 
of a certain house. 

The defendant admits the debt and requests delay until fall. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the sum demanded, 
delaying execution for the space of six weeks. 

P^ Bronck, plaintiff, having attached a certain sum of money 
in the custody of Frans Barentsz, belonging to Jan van Bremen, 
defendant. 

The wife of the defendant asks for adjournment until her 
husband's return. 

Upon the petition of a number of burghers and inhabitants of 
Beverwyck, praying that the corral or palisades in front of their 
houses may be removed, the following marginal note is entered: 

The court, having taken the petitioners' or remonstrants' 
request into consideration, [favors it] to the extent [of 
promising] that, as soon as the church shall have been erected, 
due regard will be had to it, the court to make such disposition 
in the matter as the circumstances of the time will then allow. 

Philip P""^^. Schuyler is granted and allowed an addition to 
his lot on which his house stands, at present surveyed as follows: 
Adjoining on the south the wagon road, in length 9 rods, 5 
feet; on the west side the hill, in width 5 rods, 1 1 feet; on the 
north side P^ Hertgers, in length 9 rods, 7 feet; and on the 
east side Sander Leendertsz, in width 6 rods and 2 feet. 

There was read a petition of some bakers, praying that they 
and all other bakers, present and future, be prohibited from 
baking any sweetmeats to be sold to the savages. 

Whereupon the following apostil is given: It is left to the 
choice and option of the petitioners and all other bakers to bake 
and use the specified sweetmeats, or not. Done the 9th of June 
1656. 

[278] The officer and commissary, Johan de Deckere, noti- 
fies Dirk Bentsingh that he will institute his action against him 
on account of the very abusive and villainous terms used by him 
about the court before all the world, namely, that they were a 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 111 

pack of rascals, villains and dogs, where and in such way as 
he shall see fit 

J. DE DeCKERE 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
Jacob Schermerho[orn] 
DiRCK Jansen Croon 



Tuesday, June 27, 1 656 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, defendant. 

First default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Daniel Ringhout, defendant, for pay- 
ment of the fine of fl. 24 :- because the defendant on the first of 
this current month of June baked light weight white bread, con- 
trary to the ordinance, and asking also that he be condemned 
to suspend his trade for the space of six weeks. 

The court orders the payment of the fine and the suspension 
of his trade, respectively, as demanded. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer, defendant, for pay- 
ment of the fine of fl.l2:- on account of the matter before 
mentioned. 

The court orders the payment to be made. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Tomas Paul, defendant. 

First default. 

[279] Idem, plaintiff, against Cornelis Cornelisz, defendant, 
to pay the fine of fl.6:— for some fighting. 

The court condemns the defendant to pay the fine of four 
guilders. 

Idem, plaintiff, against P^ Bont, defendant, to submit his 
evidence, and furthermore requesting judgment. 

The court refer parties to Frans Barentsz and Jan Verbeecq, 
referees. 

Anna de Hulter, plaintiff, against Tomas Chiambers, defend- 
ant. The plaintiff requests that the defendant be ordered to 



278 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

institute his action for any claims which he may have against her, 
simul et semel, on pain of having judgment given against him by 
default. 

The defendant requests adjournment until next week. 

Goossen Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Abram P"^. Vosburch, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of the sum of fl. 439:3, 
according to his note of hand, to be paid with 1 beavers and the 
balance in seawan. 

The defendant admits the debt and offers to pay 1 00 guilders 
a week. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the sum demanded as 
agreed to by him. 

Jannitge Jans, plaintiff, against Hendrik, the baker, defend- 
ant. First default. 

Cornelis Cornelisz, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer, 
defendant, about payment of the sum of fl.75:— for tavern 
expenses. 

The court, having heard the confession of the defendant, 
orders him to pay the sum demanded. 

[280] Idem, plaintiff, against Claes Uylenspiegel, defendant. 
First default. 

P^ Bronk, plaintiff, having attached the sum of fl. 283:3, in 
the custody of Frans Barentsz, belonging to Jan van Bremen, 
against said van Bremen, defendant. 

He demands that the attachment be sustained and further- 
more that the defendant be ordered to pay the aforesaid fl.283 :3, 
on account of the delivery of some goods. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff and declares the 
money attached to be security for the debt and subject to 
execution. 

Maria Dyckmans, plaintiff, having attached a certain sum of 
fl.84:- in the custody of and belonging to as above, on account 
of house rent, to be paid in grain, beavers, or the value thereof. 

The defendant ut supra. 

The court ut supra. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 279 

Poulus Cornelisz, plaintiff, against Claes Cornelisz van den 
Berch, defendant, about payment of three beavers, according to 
his note. 

The court refers parties to referees, each party to choose one. 

P^ Ryverdingh, plaintiff, against Herman Bamboes, defend- 
ant, about payment of 28 beavers and 3 guilders, 9 stivers, for 
the delivery of some goods. 

The defendant admits the debt. The court gives judgment 
for the plaintiff. 

[281] Herman Bamboes, plaintiff, against Jochem, the 
baker. First default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Daniel Ringhout, defendant, about 
payment of the sum of fl.42:- for tavern expenses. 

The defendant admits the debt and agrees to pay within six 
weeks. The court gives judgment accordingly. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hofmeyer, defendant, about 
payment of the sum of fl.27 :- for tavern expenses. 

The defendant admits the debt. Judgment for the plaintiff. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Dirk Bentsingh, defendant, for pay- 
ment of 5 beavers for canceling the purchase of a house. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hap, defendant. First 
default. 

^^ Salomon La Chair, plaintiff, against Abraham van Linthout, 
defendant, whose goods he caused to be attached, for payment 
of the sum of fl. 328:- by balance and settlement of accounts, 
at least by provisional judgment. 

The defendant says that he has a counter claim, but he can 
not present it at this place and time. 

The court grants the provisional judgment asked and declares 
the goods attached to be security therefor and subject to execu- 
tion, without prejudice to the defendant's right in the principal 
matter at issue. 



" Salomon La Chair and Jacob van Couwenhoven were sureties for 
the payment by Abraham van Linthout of the purchase price of a yacht. 
See Records of Neiv Amsterdam, 1653-74, 2:82,100. 



280 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

[282] Extraordinary Session, Thursday, June 29, 1656 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, ex officio 
plaintiff, against P'. Bont, defendant, asking that judgment be 
given. 

The court condemn the defendant to pay a fine of four 
beavers. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, defendant. 

He demands that the defendant be condemned to pay a fine 
of fl. 24:— and in addition be suspended for six weeks from 
exercising his trade, all because the defendant on the 7th of this 
current month baked light weight white bread, contrary to the 
ordinance. 

TTie court, having heard the defendant, condemn him to pay 
the fine demanded and suspend him for six weeks from the 
exercise of his trade. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Tomas Paul and his wife, defendants, 
first, to pay a fine of fl. 12 :- for cause as above, and in addition 
fl. 25:- because the defendant's wife called the plaintiff and 
the members of the court as they were making the inspection a 
pack of extortioners and devils. 

The court condemn the defendant and his wife to pay the 
sum of fl. 22:- within twenty-four hours. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Geertruy Haps. Default 



[283] Tuesday, July 4, 1656 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and president of the bench of 
justice, plaintiff ex officio, against Willem Telier, defendant, to 
produce his evidence, if he has any, and asking that judgment 
be given accordingly. 

The court, having taken everything duly into consideration, 
order the defendant to pay the sum of one hundred guilders for 
the benefit of the plaintiff. 

Idem, plaintiff ex officio, against the same defendant, all as 
above. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 281 

The court as above order the defendant to pay a fine of 
fl. 50:- for the benefit of the poor. 

Andries Herperts causes a note to be made that the aforesaid 
sentence was rendered contrary to his judgment, his opinion being 
that the aforesaid defendant on the first count should have been 
condemned to pay the sum of fl. 150:— and on the second count 
a fine of 300 guilders and in addition be ordered to make 
honorable reparation. 

Idem, plaintiff, against MarceHs Jansz, asking permission to 
levy on Abram P"^. Vosburch the sum of fl. 4:—, belonging to 
the defendant and attached in the hands of the said Vosburch. 

The court orders Abram Vosburch to turn over the said four 
guilders to the plaintiff, against his receipt. 

Idem, plaintiff, having attached certain moneys in the custody 
of Tomas Chiambers, belonging to Jacob Loserik, requesting as 
above permission to levy the money in his custody. 

The court grants the request. 

[284] Jacob Gerritsz, plaintiff, against Tomas Chiambers, 
defendant, about payment of the sum of fl. 382:— for wages 
earned in building a barn, mill and house, to be paid in beavers 
or grain. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides, order the 
defendant to pay the sum of fl. 382 :— 

Anna de Hulter, plaintiff, against Tomas Chiambers, defend- 
ant, to institute his action. 

The defendant exhibits a copy of his account. 

The plaintiff takes a copy thereof. 

Andries de Vos, plaintiff, against P^ Bronk, defendant, for 
payment of the sum of fl. 600:—, to be paid one third in seawan 
and the rest in beavers. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The court therefore gives judgment for the plaintiff. 

P"". Bronk, by virtue of a transfer [of claim] from Christoffel 
Davidts, plaintiff, against Jacob Gerritsz, defendant, for pay- 
ment of the sum of fl. 264:4:-, according to his note, payable in 
beavers or grain. 



282 Fort Orange and Beverwyck 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff. 

Herman Jacobsz, plaintiff, against Jochem, the baker, defend- 
ant. Second default. 

Idem, plaintiff, against Willem Hap, defendant. Second 
default. 

[285] Cornelis Cornelisz, plaintiff, against Claes Uylen- 
spiegel, defendant, for payment of the sum of fl.60:— for tavern 
expenses. 

The defendant requests delay until the fall. 

The court gives judgment for the plaintiff, granting delay of 
execution for six weeks. 

Michiel Jansz, plaintiff, against Jan Michielsz, defendant, for 
payment of the sum of fl. 31:1 :— , by balance of accounts 
adjusted in the year 1646. 

The court, having heard the parties on both sides, order the 
defendant to pay the sum demanded, denying the defendant his 
counter claim. 

There was submitted and presented a certain memorial of 
the honorable consistory of the village of Beverwyck, stating and 
setting forth that one Michiel Antonisz from Uytrecht, owing 
to a certain mistaken and untruthful report of a certain neighbor, 
who had lived in one and the same street next to one Grietge 
Jacobs, the aforesaid Michiel's first wife, that she, meaning 
instead of the wife, the mother, was dead and buried, had there- 
upon, mistaking the one for the other, married for the second 
time one Femmetge Aelberts, residing in Katskil ; that since that 
time the first wife, the aforesaid Grietge Jacobs from Amster- 
dam, had also arrived here and revealed herself, whereupon the 
aforesaid Femmetge had declared that she wished no longer to 
live with the aforesaid Michiel Anthonisz, being of opinion that 
the said Grietge Jacobs, having the oldest papers, should have 
the priority and continue her marriage with the aforesaid Michiel 
Anthonisz, her own and lawful husband; that the same for the 
reasons aforesaid was also requested by the aforesaid Grietge 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 283 

Jacobs; furthermore, that the aforesaid case, being not [286] 
only of an ecclesiastical but also of a political nature, is referred 
to the christian authorities to request their approval, the aforesaid 
consistory requesting finally that at the instance of the said 
Femmetge Aelbrechts she be granted letters of divorce. 

The commissary and magistrates, having examined the afore- 
said memorial and the request made therein and having sum- 
moned the said Michiel Anthonisz and Grietgen Jacobs to 
appear before them and confronted them w^ith each other and 
heard their respective prayers and requests, have after mature 
deliberation considered, first, that the aforesaid case was con- 
trary neither to the laws of God nor of man, the more so as the 
aforesaid Michiel Anthonisz had for nine years been out of the 
country and for a period of more than five successive years 
had heard or received no word or sign from the aforesaid Grietge 
Jacobs; also, that all marriages by mistake are ipso jure null and 
void, and finally, that the aforesaid Femmitge Aelberts has 
renounced her aforesaid matrimonial rights and relinquished them 
in favor of the aforesaid parties who were first joined in marriage. 
They therefore approve the aforesaid memorial and ordain, order 
and consent that the said Michiel Anthonisz and Grietge Jacobs 
shall be and remain husband and wife and that the bonds of 
marriage between them are not dissolved by the second marriage 
with the aforesaid Femmitge, declaring the said Femmitge freed 
therefrom, restoring her to her former liberty and granting her 
the right at all times to marry again, where and whomsoever she 
pleases, without interference or objection by any one. 

[287] Tuesday, July 17. 1656 

Presentibus omnibus 
preter Philip P""". 

Johan de Deckere, commissary and officer here, requests an 
interpretation of a certain order issued by this honorable court 
on the 18th of April last, in regard to certain persons who had 
and have thus far failed to build on their vacant lots and conse- 



284 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

quently whether Arien Jansz from Leyden was not then or is 
not now subject to a fine of fl.25 :— ? 

The court, having examined the aforesaid request, declare 
that they were then and are still of opinion that the aforesaid 
Arien Jansz from Leyden is liable and they therefore condemn 
him hereby to pay a fine of H. 25 :-, on pain of forfeiting the lot» 
and this regardless of the provisions of the aforesaid order. 

Daniel Ringhout, plaintiff, against Juriaen Teunisz, defendant, 
for payment of 21 beavers for the purchase and delivery of some 
brandy. 

The defendant admits the debt and promises to pay the plain- 
tiff before his departure for the fatherland. 

The court accordingly gives judgment for the plaintiff. 

Juriaen Teunisz, plaintiff, against Baefge Pieters, defendant, 
for payment of 28 beavers for brandy delivered. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The court accordingly gives judgment for the plaintiff. 

Jan van Housen, plaintiff, against Hendrik Gerritsz, defend- 
ant. Default. 

Dirk Jansz Croon, plaintiff, against Symon Groot, defendant. 
Default. 

[288] Idem, plaintiff, against Cornelis Vos, defendant, for 
payment of the sum of fl. 464, by balance of a larger amount 
for some merchandise delivered, payable in beavers with the 
interest thereon, according to the custom of the trade, or other 
arrangement. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the sum demanded 
within the space of 1 4 days, on pain of execution. 

Idem, plaintiff, having attached certain 3|/2 beavers in the 
custody of Meyndert, the smith, and also 1 1/2 ditto, in the care 
of Rem Jansz, belonging to Moy Aeltie,'^ the wife of Huybert 
. . . , against the said Moy Aeltie, defendant. 

Default, with order sustaining the attachment 

■*« Fair Alida. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 285 

Pieter Bronck, plaintiff, against Jan, the weaver, defendant. 
Default. 

Appeared in court Mr Abram Staets and Sander Leendertsz, 
in charge of the receipt and disbursement of a certain contribution 
heretofore ordered and levied on property owners for defraying 
the cost of the bridge and other expenses, who exhibited their 
account and turned over the balance of the money, amountmg to 
R. 7:3:—. The same being accepted and the account being veri- 
fied, the court has expressed its satisfaction therewith and thanked 
them for their trouble, releasing them hereby from all claims for 
the money received. 

Commissary Johan de Deckere has turned over to Rutger 
Jacobsz and consigned to him the sum of fl. 93 :5 :— , heretofore 
in his custody on account of Jacob Adriaensz. 

[289] Wednesday, October 4, anno 1656™ 

The honorable officer, plaintiff, against Henderick Henderick- 
sen, baker, defendant. 

The officer says that the defendant was fined by the court 
twenty-four guilders for having baked light weight bread and 
ten guilders for using abusive language, which sentence he has 
refused to comply with and to satisfy. Also, that on account 
of his refusal he was prohibited from baking, which order in 
contempt of the court he has also refused to obey. 

[The defendant gives] for answer that he has never baked 
bread for the Christians that was found short of weight, but as 
to the savages, he declares that he did not know that it was 
forbidden. 

Whether he was not fined thirty-four guilders by the court? 
[Answers] , Yes. 



^^ Of the remainder of this volume, covering the minutes from October 4 
to December 12, 1656, a copy is in part 2 of volume 16 of the New 
York Colonial Manuscripts, calendared in Calendar of Historical Manu- 
scripts, edited by E. B. O'Callaghan, part I, Dutch Manuscripts. 1630- 
1664. p. 312-13. 



286 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

Whether the first and second time that notice was served on 
him, he refused to comply with and satisfy the sentence? 

Answers, that he put it off until the arrival of the officer. 

Whether, upon further refusal, he was not enjoined by the 
court from baking for the space of six weeks? 

Answers, that the court messenger served notice on him to that 
effect, but that he gave the court messenger for answer, " Why 
should I stop baking? My money is ready." 

[290] The court messenger being thereupon personally 
examined and the writ returned by him being inspected, his report 
is that the defendant answered: ** I must nevertheless go on 
and await what will come of it." 

Being asked further whether he has been obedient and stopped 
baking? Answers, No. 

The officer demands that he be fined the double amount and 
be suspended from the exercise of his trade for the period of three 
months and remain under arrest until the fine is paid. 

A vote being taken, the defendant is by a majority of those 
present condemned to pay the fine demanded and as an example 
to others suspended for the space of six weeks, or else ordered 
to compose with the officer. 

[P. Stuyvesant 

RUTGER JaCOBSEN 

Anderies Herbertsen 

Jacob Janssen Schermerhoorn 

Philip Pietersen]^" 

[291] Whereas Egbertjen Egberts, innkeeper in the village 
of Beverwyck, in contempt and disregard of the ordinances and 
placards of the Director General and Council and in violation 
of the express prohibition of the commissary and magistrates of 

®° The signatures, which are cut from the record, are supplied from 
the copy in part 2 of volume I 6 of the New York Colonial Manuscripts 
in the State Library. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 287 

the aforesaid village, has not hesitated to sell beer to the savages 
or, as she herself declares, to give it to them for some tapoesjem, 
according to her own confession made without being subjected 
to pain or duress, therefore the officer, in his capacity of plain- 
tiff, for the maintenance of the aforesaid ordinances and placards, 
in accordance with the published and frequently renewed ordi- 
nances, has demanded that the aforesaid Egbertje Egberts be 
fined five hundred guilders and moreover as an example to others 
be subjected to arbitrary corporal punishment and correction 
and be banished from this country, as the very sad and dangerous 
accidents resulting from the tapping, selling, or giving of wine or 
beer to the savages indeed require that on account of the afore- 
said disregard and violation of the original and more than once 
renewed ordinances and the sad accidents resulting from the 
drunkeness of the savages, the aforesaid Egbert] en Egberts as 
an example to others receive arbitrary corporal punishment there- 
for and be banished from this country. Nevertheless, the 
Director General and the magistrates of this court, taking into 
consideration the voluntary admission of guilt by the said 
Egbertje Egberts and being for the present inclined to show 
leniency instead of rigor (on which, however, in the future no 
one is to rely), have [292] sentenced and condemned the afore- 
said Egbertjen Egberts, as they sentence and condemn her 
hereby, to pay a fine of three hundred guilders, she to remain 
under civil detention until the judgment is satisfied or satisfactory 
security is given ; the further demands of the officer being denied. 
Thus done, sentenced and condemned at the session of the 
Hon. Director General and the Magistrates of the village of 
Beverwyck, this 6th of October Anno 1656. 

P. Stuyvesant 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Jacob Jansen Schermerho[oren] 

Philip Pietersen 



288 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

[293] Whereas Willem Hoffmeyr, born in Brazil,"^ aged 
about twenty years, in notorious disregard and contempt of the 
well meant ordinances and placards of the Director General and 
Council of New Netherland and in violation of the orders and 
directions of the commissary and magistrates of Fort Orange and 
the village of Beverwyck, has not hesitated to sell and peddle 
beer to the savage barbarians, as he without pain or duress con- 
fesses and admits that he, Willem Hofmeyer, at present in 
custody, once with two half barrels in a canoe and afterwards, 
on the 22d, 23d and 24th of July last past, with five half barrels 
of good and small beer mixed together, sailed up the river and 
sold and peddled the beer among the savages (notwithstanding 
the strict prohibition of the Director General and Council) and 
what is worse, had it sold and peddled for him by one savage 
to other savages; and whereas, furthermore, in further contempt 
of court, the said prisoner, while he was being examined on 
account of the said offense and released on bail, has not hesitated 
the same day to admit 28 drunken savages to his house and con- 
trary to the express prohibition and warning of the court to pour 
out or sell beer to them, which disobedience, disregard, yes, con- 
tempt of good order and justice, as well as his frequent violations 
and transgressions of the well meant ordinances and placards of 
the Director General and Council of New Netherland issued and 
repeatedly renewed against the dangerous and harmful sale of 
[294] beer or wine to the savages, are matters of very evil and 
injurious consequences which in a land of justice, as an example 
to others, can and ought not to remain unpunished ; therefore, the 
Director General together with the magistrates of Fort Orange 
and the village of Beverwyck, in the name and on the part of the 
High and Mighty Lords, the States General of the United 
Netherlands and the Honorable Directors of the Chartered West 

.^'^, "^'"^ *^°^^ "°^ appear in " Doopregister der Hollanders in 

Tqqq I*" '^^^-^^' published in Algemeen Nederlandsch Familieblad, 

u C • ^°^^' ^ ^"^ ^' ^"* ^^^^^ ^^^^ °^ January 9. 1647, is recorded 

the baptism of Sigismundus, son of Harman Hoffmeyer and Joanna 

Hofrmeyers. 



1 






i^^^*^"''-?'- ^;;^'w., ,^>w?^-^--- ../--^•■ 









M 



inutes of October 6, 1656, in the handwriting of Peter Stuyvesant 



ji ^<^"^' Minutes, 1652-1656 289 

ndia Company, administering justice in the case, upon the com- 
.iain and demand of the officer and in view of his own free and 
oJuntary confession, sentence and condemn the aforesaid Willem 
lofhneyer. now in custody, as they sentence and condemn him 
ereby to pay a fine of five hundred guilders and to be banished 
•om this country for the space of three years, he to remain in 
net confinement until the judgment is satisfied. Thus done and 
:ntenced at the session of the Director General and the magis- 
ates of Fort Orange. This day. the sixth of October 1656. 

P. Stuyvesant 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Jacob Jansen Schermerhoor[en] 

Philip Pietersen 

[295] Whereas Dirckie Harmense, innkeeper in the village 
Beverwyck, in disregard and contempt of the ordinances and 
icards of the Director General and Council and contrary to 
; express prohibition of the commissary and magistrates of the 
oresaid village, has not hesitated to sell, or, as she herself 
tclares, to give, beer to the savages for some tapoesjens, accord- 
g to her own confession made without pain or duress, where- 
30n the officer, in his capacity of plaintiff, for the maintenance 
[ the aforesaid ordinances and placards, in accordance with the 
rovisions of the aforesaid and repeatedly renewed ordinances, 
as demanded that the aforesaid Dirckje Harmens be fined five 
undred guilders and furthermore that as an example to others 
he receive arbitrary corporal punishment and correction and be 
.anished from this country, as the sad and dangerous accidents 
■esulting from the tapping, selling or giving of wine or beer to 
the savages indeed demand that in view of the aforesaid dis- 
regard and violation of the aforementioned and more than once 
renewed ordinances and the sad accidents resulting from the 
drunkeness of the savages the aforesaid Dirckje Harmens. as an 
example to others, receive arbitrary and corporal punishment 



290 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

and be banished from this country. However, taking into con- 
sideration the voluntary confession of the aforesaid Dirckjen 
Harmens, the Director General and the magistrates of this court 
are for the present inclined [206] to show leniency instead of 
rigor (on which, however, no one should rely in the future) and 
have sentenced and condemned the aforesaid Dirckjen Harmens, 
as they sentence and condemn her hereby, to pay a fine of three 
hundred guilders, she to remain in civil detention until the satis- 
faction of the judgment or until she shall have furnished satis- 
factory security, the further demands of the officer being denied. 
Thus done, sentenced and condemned at the session of the 
Director General and the magistrates of the village of Bever- 
wyck, this 6th of October Anno 1656. >r 

P. Stuyvesant 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 

Jacob Jansen Schermerho[oren] 

Philip Pietersen 

The 12th of October the officer arrested a certain drunken 
savage, committing insolence, and brought him on a brewer's 
wagon to the fort where he was placed in confinement. 

[297] The 13th of October Anno 1656, at the request of 
the officer of Fort Orange, the savage named Macheck Sipoeti, 
a Mahican, was examined by Jan Tomassen, well acquainted 
with the Mahican language, in the presence of the Hon. J. B. 
Rencelaer, director of the colony of Renselaerswyck, and the 
Hon. Ruth Jacobsen and Anderies Herbertsen, magistrates of 
the court of Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck. 

He was asked first where he had been drinking, whereupon he 
answered, in an Indian house, situated near the Gojer's kill.'^ 

He was then asked where the savages had obtained the 
brandy, whereupon he answered, on the east side of the river, 
from the Dutch, who lived there. 

"''Near Schodack. See Earl^ Records of Alban}), 2:131. 



Court Minutes, 1652-/656 291 

Thirdly, he was asked the names of the Dutch who had sold 
or given them the brandy, whereupon he answered that he did 
not know their names. 

Finally, he was asked how large the cask was, whereupon he 
indicated the size in such a way that one was able to judge that it 
must have been an anker. 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 
La Montagne 



[298] Ordinary Session, October 17, 1656 

Fredrick Hendericksz, skipper, plaintiff, against Henderick 
Jochimsen, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment by the defendant of 37 whole 
beavers, due him on a note. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The parties being heard by the court, the defendant is ordered 
to pay the plaintiff the number of 37 whole beavers, at once. 

Jan Jansen van Ekel, plaintiff, against Abraham Pietersen. 
The defendant having failed to appear the second time, default 
is entered against him. 

Gossen Gerritsen, plaintiff, having power of attorney from the 
widow of Reyer Stoffelsen, against Gillis Pietersen. The plain- 
tiff, in his capacity, demands payment of the sum of 200 guilders, 
according to a note of hand which he exhibits in court. 

The defendant admits the debt. 

The parties being heard, the court orders the defendant to pay 
the aforesaid sum of 200 guilders within the space of two months. 

Lowies Cobus, having power of attorney from Jan Peeck, 
plaintiff, against Claes Ripsen, defendant. 

He demands payment of 50 guilders made over to the defend- 
ant, arising from a certain fine. 

The defendant says that he satisfied the former officer Dyck- 
man for the aforesaid sum. 



292 Fori Orange and Beverw\)cli 

The wife of the aforesaid Dyckman, in the absence of her 
husband, acknowledges that the aforesaid sum was paid to her 
husband. The defendant is discharged by the court from the 
plaintiff's demand. 

[299] Gossen Gerritsen, attorney for the widow of Reyer 
Stoffelsen, plaintiff, against Christoffel Davids, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of 60 guilders in corn. 

The defendant admits the debt and promises to pay, on con- 
dition that the note which he executed in favor of Reyer Stoffel- 
sen be returned to him; also a silver beaker which he gave to 
Reyer Stoffelsen, deceased, to have it remodeled in Holland. 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered by 
the court to pay the said sum of 60 guilders in corn within the 
space of six weeks, provided that the note, if there is one, be at 
the same time returned to him. As to the beaker, he is to cor- 
roborate his claim by testimony. 

Gossen Gerritsen, plaintiff, against Lambert van Valcken- 
borch, defendant. 

Owing to nonappearance of the defendant, default is entered 
against him. 

Gossen Gerritsen, plaintiff, against Claes Teunissen, defendant. 
The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Isbrant Eldersen, plaintiff, against Leendert Philipsen, defend- 
ant. The plaintiff demands the return of a pair of black cloth 
sleeves given to the defendant to be altered. 

The defendant admits that he received the half sleeves from 
the plaintiff, but claims that they were stolen from his house. 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered to 
restore the sleeves in question, or pay 8 guilders cash for them. 

Jan Gouw, plaintiff, against Harmen Jacobsen, defendant. 

For want of appearance, default is taken against the defendant. 

[300] Tomas Poulussen, plaintiff, against Tjerck Claesen. 

The plaintiff demands payment of 6 beavers. 

The defendant admits the debt, but claims that 1 6 guilders is 
due him by the plaintiff for wages. 

The plaintiff maintains that he does not owe as much. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 293 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered to 
pay 4 beavers to the plaintiff within the space of six weeks, and 
meanwhile to settle the dispute in regard to the wages and after 
the liquidation to pay to the plaintiff the balance, if any there be, 
of the value of 2 beavers. 

N. B. The time of payment expires on the first of December. 

The officer, plaintiff, in a criminal case, against Jurriaen the 
glazier, defendant. 

The officer says that the defendant in the night of the 1 1 th 
of October, coming from the watch to the door of his house, 
knocked on said door and after it had been opened by his wife, 
drew his sword from the scabbard and struck with it his own 

wife, saying : " You d whore and rascal," at which noise 

Cornelis Pietersen Hoogenboom, then lying asleep on a chest, 
woke up and fled to the garret, where he was followed by the 
defendant, who held a candle and his naked sword in his hand 
and finally, without any altercation, cut and wounded Cornelis 
Pietersen in his right arm, as appears from the complaint of the 
said CorneHs Pietersen Hogenboom, the report of Mr Jacob de 
Hinsse, surgeon, and the testimony of Jan Barentsen, carpenter, 
Jan de Graef and Pieter, the baker, [301] examined by the 
honorable magistrates upon interrogatories. 

The defendant says that on knocking at his door, he heard 
a noise of some one climbing into his garret, whereupon he con- 
ceived a suspicion of theft or other mischief, which caused him 
to visit his garret and finding there Cornelis Pietersen Hoogen- 
boom hidden under a bedstead, he thought himself justified in 
attacking him in his own house as a thief or criminal, considering 
that the sun had set. 

The magistrates, having learned from the report of the surgeon 
that the wound is not dangerous and heard from the witnesses 
the circumstances of the case, order, in consideration of the cir- 
cumstances, that the defendant shall settle with the officer, pro- 
vided however that he compensate Cornelis Pietersen Hoogen- 
boom for maintenance, medicine and lost time. 



294 Fort Orange and Beverrv})ck 

Gommer Poulussen requests the court to grant him a place 
for a garden. The magistrates have taken the matter under 
advisement and will accommodate the petitioner according the 
situation of the place. 

La Montagne 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 



[302] October 21, Anno 1656 

Extraordinary session requested by Marceles Janssen 

Marcelus Janssen, plaintiff, against Pieter Adriaensen, alias 
Soogemackelyck. 

The plaintiff demands prompt payment of six hundred and 
twenty-five guilders, which the defendant promised to pay him 
within the space of fourteen days, which have now expired. 

The defendant brings into court 386 guilders in strung and 
loose seawan, which the plaintiff accepts. He consents that the 
attachment against the defendant be vacated, but demands that 
he shall pay the costs of the extraordinary session. 

The parties having been heard, the court orders that they 
shall each pay one half of the costs of the extraordinary session. 

Lowies Cobus, plaintiff, against the wife of Jeles Fonda. 

The plaintiff complains that the defendant without his knowl- 
edge or consent has taken an apron belonging to his wife hanging 
on the fence. 

The defendant denies the charge and alleges that the plain- 
tiff's wife gave her the said apron as a pledge for five and a half 
beavers, and the defendant being not satisfied with the apron as 
a pledge for the said sum, the plaintiff's wife gave her an under 
shirt in addition. 

[303] The parties having been heard by the court, the court, 
seeing that they have neither proof nor witnesses, order the 
defendant to confirm her statement by oath, giving her time until 
the next court day to consider the solemnity of an oath. 






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Minutes of October 17, 1656, signed by Commissary La Montagne 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 295 

Carsten Fredrickx, being summoned by order of the court to 
place a value on his lot which he must cede for the accom- 
modation of this community to remove to the said lot a house 
leaning against the church, demands one hundred beavers, where- 
upon the court decides to take the matter under advisement. 

La Montagne 

RUTGER JaCOBSZ 

Andries Herberts 



[Ordinance for the Sweeping of Chimneys]** 

[304] Whereas daily experience teaches us that in conse- 
quence of the foul and unswept condition of the chimneys, they 
often take fire and generally the houses also, yes, frequently the 
neighboring buildings, especially when they are covered with 
inflammable materials, whereby great damage is done not only to 
houses and goods, but — sad spectacle — to people also ; there- 
fore, the vice director and magistrates of this court, wishing as 
a matter of their official duty to prevent such accidents to the best 
of their ability, do hereby order all burghers and inhabitants of 
Fort Orange and the village of Beverwyck, and each one in 
particular, to keep the chimneys of the respective houses clean 
and free from danger of fire, on pain of forfeiture of one pound 
Flemish for every chimney which shall be found dirty and 
declared as such 15 days after the publication hereof. 

Done in Fort Orange, the 24th of October 1656. 

La Montagne 
Rutger Jacobsz 
Andries Herberts 



*^ Printed in LaTi>s and Ordinances of Ncn> Netherland, p. 257. 



296 Fort Orange and Beverw^ck 

[305] Ordinary Session, October 24, Anno 1656 

Johannes van Twillert, plaintiff, against Christoffel Davidts, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of the sum of 564 guilders, 
8 stivers, according to the voluntary confession [of the defend- 
ant] , w^hereupon judgment was given by the court of Rencelaers- 
wyck and by virtue thereof an attachment secured against certain 
moneys in the custody of Jacob Janssen Stollen and Tomas 
Chambert. 

The defendant admits the debt and agrees that the plaintiff 
shall receive from the hands of the aforesaid Jacob Janssen 
Stollen and Tomas Chambert the moneys attached, up to the 
amount of his debt due to the aforesaid van Twillert, 

The magistrates, having heard the confession and the consent 
of the defendant, [give judgment for] the aforesaid sum of 564 
guilders and 8 stivers and order that the property in the hands of 
Jacob Janssen Stollen and Tomas Chambert may be levied upon 
by the plaintiff to the amount of 564 guilders and 8 stivers. 

Jan Janssen van Eeckel, plaintiff, against Abraham Pietersen 
Vosbergh. 

The plaintiff requests execution of the judgment given against 
the defendant on the 29th of August last, whereby the defendant 
was ordered to pay twelve beavers within six weeks, which have 
now expired. 

The wife of the defendant, appearing instead of her husband, 
offers to pay cash in seawan, or in beavers in the spring. 

The plaintiff accepts the offer of payment in beavers on the 
first of June, provided the defendant give him one beaver by 
way of interest. 

The magistrates, having heard the agreement between the 
parties, order the defendant to pay the sum in question to the 
plaintiff on the first of June Anno 1657, provided that the 
defendant shall pay the plaintiff one beaver as interest. 

[306] Jan Janssen van Eeckelen, plaintiff, against Abraham 
Pietersen Vosburgh. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 297 

The parties being heard, it is ordered that the defendant, 
Abraham Pietersen, shall personally appear. 

Evert Pries, plaintiff, against Jan van Aecken, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands compensation for damage suffered by 
him on goods in his chest, which w^as entrusted to the care of the 
defendant and which damage occurred through the defendant's 
fault. 

The defendant says that he did not have the care of the chest, 
but that it was left at his house by the plaintiff. 

The magistrates order the parties each to choose a referee to 
adjust the matter. 

Lowies Cobus, attorney of Jan Peeck, plaintiff, against Abra- 
ham Vosbergh, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is entered against 
him. 

Jan Gouw, plaintiff, against Harmen Jacobsen, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of 1 7 and a half beavers. 

The defendant offers to make payment in seawan or grain. 

The magistrates, having heard the parties, order the defendant 
to pay the number of 1 7 and a half beavers within the space of 
six weeks. 

Frans Barentsen, plaintiff, against Abram Pieter Vosbrugh. 

For want of appearance of the defendant, default is taken 
against him. 

[307] Fop Barentsen against Cornelis Vos, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Cornelis Teunissen requests for Tomas Janssen Mingael a 
lot for a house, situated between Pieter Loockermans and Pieter 
Messen. 

The honorable magistrates have taken the matter under 
advisement in order to accommodate the petitioner in all fairness. 



298 Fort Orange and Beveriv^ck 

Ultimo October Anno 1656 

Ordinary session held in Fort Orange. Present: La Mon- 
tagne, commissary and Rutgher Jacobsz and Andries Harperss:, 
magistrates. 

Juffrouw Johanna Thullert," plaintiff, against Harmen Jacob- 
sen, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is entered against 
him. 

Juffrouw Johanna Thullert, plaintiff, against Govert Hen- 
dericksen, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is entered against 
him. 

Jochim, the baker, plaintiff, against Willem Hoffmeyr, 
defendant. 

The parties having been heard, the court refers the case to 
referees chosen by the parties respectively, to settle the matter in 
an amicable manner. 

Henderick Anderiessen, plaintiff, [308] against Henderick 
Gerritsen, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands reparation for injury to his reputation 
done by the defendant. 

The defendant denies that he has injured the plaintiff's repu- 
tation in any way. 

The court orders the plaintiff to prove his charges. 

Jan Janssen van Eeckelen, plaintiff, against Abraham Pieter- 
sen Vosbergen, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands compensation for two hogsheads of 
French wine, the balance of three, put by the plaintiff in the 
defendant's cellar, which were spoiled through the defendant's 
fault, as the said defendant refused to sell them to some who 
tried to buy them. 

The defendant maintains that the said damage is not his fault, 
as the wine was not placed in his care, but only put in his cellar 
with his consent by the plaintiff, who gave him permission to sell 
of it as much as he could, which he did, having sold one [hogs- 

*^ Madam Johanna de Hulter. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 299 

head]. The remaining two hogsheads, which spoiled, he tried 
to improve with the help of Mr van Hamel, as the plaintiff after- 
wards also sought to do with the said Hamel's help. 

The parties having been heard, the court orders the plaintiff 
to take back the wine in question. In regard to the damage, 
[309] the plaintiff's demand is denied and the defendant is 
discharged. 

Jochim, the baker, requests the court to grant him a place for 
a garden. 

The court will take the request under advisement and after 
inspection of the place requested, accommodate the said Jochim 
in all fairness. 

The Honorable Anderies Herbertsen, magistrate, has declared 
before the court that the 27th of this month a Maquaes savage 
came quite drunk into his house and after committing many acts 
of violence left some goods in his house. Coming the other day 
to the said house to fetch his goods, he declared to the deponent 
that the wine which made him drunk was bought by three squas 
from Barent Pietersen, the miller. 

November 7, Anno 1656 

Ordinary session. Present: La Montagne, commissary; 
Rutgher Jacobsz:, Andries Harperss:, Jacob Schermerhooren 
and Philip Pieterss:, magistrates. 

Juffrouw Johanna t'HuIter, plaintiff, against Tomas Clabbort, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of a certain account delivered 
to the defendant. 

The defendant maintains that he satisfied her by means of a 
counter-claim delivered to the plaintiH^. 

The parties having been heard, it is ordered by the court that 
the plaintiff shall within the space of fourteen days state her 
objections to the defendant's account. 

[310] Juffrouw t'Hullert,*'" plaintiff, against Govert Hen- 
dericksen, defendant. 



Madam Johanna de Hulter. 



300 Fort Orange and Bevertv^ck 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 
N. B. Also default for the second and third times. 

Harmen Jacobsen, plaintiff, against Jan Roeloffsen, Gerril 
Hendericksen and Huybert Janssen, defendants. 

The court orders the defendant, Huybert Janssen, to pay the 
admitted debt within the space of three months and orders 
default to be entered against Jan Roeloffsen and Gerrit Hen- 
dericksen. 

Arent vanden Berch, plaintiff, against Henderick Gerritsen, 
defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Cornelis Teunissen, plaintiff, in a case of slander against 
Abraham Stevensen Crawaet, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

The officer, in a case of slander and insolence, plainti^, 
against Tomas Chambert, alias Clabbort. 

The plaintiff demands reparation for abusive remarks made 
in his presence and that of the entire court about the honorable 
directors, the director general and council and the entire court 
on the 6th of November last in the house of Willem Freederick- 
sen Bout, v^here the [311] said court and the surveyors were 
met to decide some question regarding the survey. 

The defendant excuses himself on the ground that he was 
drunk and does not know what he said or did, saying that he is 
sorry that he used offensive language to his superior authorities. 
He promises not to do it again and declares that he is ready to 
undergo such punishment as he deserves in case he should repeat 
the offense, craving pardon for the fault committed. 

The court, observing the defendant's sorrow and his promises, 
and considering the condition he was in when he uttered the said 
abusive remarks, excuses him for the present from undergoing 
the merited punishment and, preferring leniency to rigor, con- 
demn the defendant to pay a fine of one hundred and fifty 
guilders, to be paid within the space of six weeks. 

N. B. the time will expire on the 20th of December. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 301 

November 22, Anno 1656 

Ordinary session held in Fort Orange. Present: Rutgher 
Jacobss:, Andries Harperss:, Jacob Schermerhooren and 
Philippe Pieterss:, magistrates. 

Frans Barentsen Pastoor, plaintiff, against Abraham Pietersen 
Vosborch, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of a balance of twenty-seven 
pieces of beaver at fl. 10 apiece, in seawan, which the defendant 
paid him in seawan at fl. 8 apiece, so that there is still due him 
fl. 54. 

[312] The defendant maintains that he paid the twenty- 
seven beavers in full in seawan, at fl. 8 apiece. 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered to 
pay the plaintiff the sum of fl. 54 in seawan. 

Frans Barentsen Pastoor, plaintiff, against Jan van Breemen, 
defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Frans Barentsen Pastoor, plaintiff, against Jan Martensen, 
alias the weaver, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Lowies Cobus, as attorney, plaintiff, against Frans Barentsen 
Pastoor, defendant. 

The plaintiff says that he had ten beavers attached in the 
hands of the defendant, which ten beavers the defendant paid 
in spite of the attachment. 

The defendant says that he paid them by order of the court. 

The plaintiff asks adjournment until the next court day, in 
order to have Pieter Brouwer subpoenaed. 

The court consents to the adjournment. 

Fop Barentsen, plaintiff, against Comelis Vos, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of one hundred and fifty 
guilders loaned by him to the defendant some weeks ago. 

The defendant denies that he owes the plaintiff any money. 

[313] The court orders the plaintiff to prove the alleged debt 
on the next court day by written contract or testimony of 
witnesses. 



302 Fori Orange and Beverw^ck 

November 28, Anno 1 656 

Ordinary session held in Fort Orange. Present: Rutgher 
Jacobs:, Andries Harpertss:, Jacob Schermerhooren and 
Philippe Pieterss:, magistrates. 

Juffrouw de Hulter, plaintiff, against Jan Gouw. 

The plaintiff demands payment for 1200 tiles, amounting to 
seven and a half beavers. 

The defendant denies that he owes the plaintiff the sum of 
fl. 64. 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered by 
the court to pay the plaintiff the sum of fl. 64 in beavers within 
the space of six weeks. 

Cornelis Cornelissen, the younger, plaintiff, against Claes 
Vylens, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

Foppe Barens, plaintiff, against Cornelis Vos, defendant. 

The plaintiff, pursuant to the order of the court of the 22 of 
November last, produces Marcelus Janssen and Harmen 
Bastiaensen, as witnesses, who, appearing, testify that being 
requested by the parties to adjust their differences, the defend- 
ant's wife said that she would not speak of anything that hap- 
pened before, as a result of which they, [314] the deponents, 
parted without having accomplished anything. 

The court orders that a copy of the testimony of the witnesses 
shall be delivered to the defendant for his consideration and if 
he has any objections to make he is to submit them on the next 
court day. 

Arent van den Berch, plaintiff, against Henderick Gerritsen, 
defendant. 

The parties having been heard, the defendant is ordered to 
pay 3 beavers when called upon to do so. 

The following persons are summoned to appear on account of 
their being found in the taverns after the ringing of the bell, con- 
trary to the ordinance: 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 303 

Harmen Jacobsen Bambus, tavernkeeper. Paid. 

Jan Gauw ^ Default 

Harmen, the carpenter J 

Jan Eeckelen. Paid. 

Teunis Jacobsen. Default. 

Albert, the carpenter, tavernkeeper. Paid. 

Geurt Hendericksz ) t^ r , 
^ . , ,. , , I Uerault. 

Cjerrit Viesbeeck | 

Daniel, the baker. Paid. 

Henderick Clootendraey^er (ball turner) ") 

Henderick, the tailor, alias " Cordiael " > Default 

Henderick, alias the *' Styve Snyder" (stiff tailor) j 

Jacob Janssen van Noortstrant requests the court to be 
appointed gager of the casks. 
The court grants the request 



[315]^* Ordinary session held in Fort Orange on the 5th of 
December Anno 1656. 

Present: Andries Harpartss:, Jacob Schermerhooren and 
Philippe Pieterss:, magistrates. 

Anderies Herbertsen, as attorney of Goosen Gerritsen, plain- 
tiff, against Claes Teunissen, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of a note of fl. 848:— 

The defendant admits that he owes a certain balance of 
account and offers to pay it with his house, requesting that the 
plaintiff show his power of attorney. 

The court orders the plaintiff to show his power of attorney 
on the next court day. 

[316] Anderies Herbertsen, plaintiff in a case of slander, 
against the wife of Henderick, the baker, defendant. 

The plaintiff says and complains that the defendant in his 
absence has called him a double thief who stole her meat out 



The upper half of the page is blank. 



304 Fori Orange and Bevern)\)ck 

of the tub and her firewood out of her house, which he offers to 
prove. 

The defendant denies having made such accusations, but 
admits that she said that the plaintiff as her accuser has been the 
cause of her husband being obHged to pay a fine of fl. 68, as a 
result of which they had to go without meat and wood. 

The parties having been heard, the court orders the plaintiff 
to furnish the defendant with a copy of his complaint, to which 
she is to make answer on the next court day. 

Jacob Schermerhoorn, plaintiff, against Christoffel Davids, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of 1 4 schepels of maize, being 
the balance of a note executed more than 10 years ago. 

The defendant denies that he owes the amount, but declares 
that he is satisfied to pay it if the plaintiff swears to it. 

The plaintiff having taken the oath, the court orders the 
defendant to pay the plaintiff two beavers in specie and 10 
stivers in seawan. 

Claes Hendericksz, plaintiff, against Gerrit Slechtenhorst, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands the defendant's reasons for forbidding 
him to build on his own ground. 

[317] The defendant says that the ground on which the 
plaintiff was busy building, belongs to him as lessee and he main- 
tains that no one has a right to build thereon without his consent 
during the term of his lease. 

The plaintiff exhibits a lease in the defendant's own hand- 
writmg, m the margin of which was written that the plaintiff was 
to have the use of the yard at present in controversy. 

The defendant maintains that such use was granted to the 
plamtiff only to keep his woodpile there and to use the ground 
for bleaching purposes, offering to prove the same. 

The parties having been heard, the court orders the defendant 
to prove on the next court day that he has granted the use of the 
yard to the plaintiff only for the purpose of piling up wood and 
of bleaching there. 



Court Minutes, 1652-1656 305 

Pieter Loockermans, plaintiff, against Matteus Abrahams, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of three and a half beavers. 

The defendant admits the debt and offers to pay, provided 
that the three beavers in the hands of Jan Gauvv^, v^hich the 
plaintiff has caused to be attached, shall be left at his disposal. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the plaintiff the three 
and a half beavers. Meanwhile, the attachment of the three 
beavers is sustained. 

Matteus Abrahamsen, plaintiff, against Jan Gauw, defendant. 

The defendant failing to appear, default is taken against him. 

[318] Foppe Barentsen, plaintiff, against Cornelis Vos, 
defendant. 

The defendant submits his defense in v^riting, of which a 
copy is asked by the plaintiff. 

The court orders the defendant to furnish the plaintiff with 
a copy of his defense, to which he is to file his answer on the 
next court day. 

Albert Gysbertsen, wheelwright, requests a certain lot for a 
garden. 

The court will first inspect the place so as to accommodate 
the petitioner according to its location. 

Arent van Curler, having power of attorney from Adriaen 
Janssen from Leyden, tavernkeeper in the colony of Renselaers- 
wyck, plaintiff, against Marcelus Janssen, formerly farmer or 
the excise on wine, beer and liquor sold by the tavernkeepers of 
Fort Orange, the village of Beverwyck and the dependencies 
thereof, defendant. 

The plaintiff demands the return of an anker of brandy which 
the defendant about 13 months ago, on his own authority and 
without the knov/ledge of and consent of the officer of Fort 
Orange and the village of Beverwyck, unlawfully seized on the 
public street and highway and appropriated to himself, for which 
aforesaid [319] anker of brandy, the principal duly ordered 
and directed his servant to obtain a retail certificate from the 



306 Fort Orange and Beverrv^ck 

aforesaid farmer, as was actually requested, according to the 
affidavit filed herewith. The plaintiff requests therefore that 
the defendant be ordered to restore the aforesaid anker of brandy 
without loss or damage, all according to law. 

Was signed : Arent van Curler. 

The defendant requests a copy of the plaintiff's demand. 

The court orders that a copy of the plaintiff's demands shall 
be delivered to the defendant. 



December 12, Anno 1656 
Ordinary session held in Fort Orange 

Harmen Jacobsen, plaintiff, against Pieter Stevensen, 
defendant. 

The plaintiff demands payment of fl.30, which the defendant 
owes. 

The defendant admits that he owes fl.23 : 1 2, and no more. 

The court orders the defendant to pay the acknowledged sum 
of fl.23: 12. 

Leendert Philipsen, plaintiff, against Tierck Claessen, 
defendant. 

[320] The plaintiff says that the defendant, having hired a 
house from him, has without his knowledge sublet it to some one 
else and requests that the rent thereof be paid to him. 

The defendant agrees to it. 

The court orders that the plaintiff shall receive the rent of his 
own house. 

Foppe Barentsen, plaintiff, against Cornelis de Vos, 
defendant. 

The defendant asks for a copy of the plaintiff's demand. 

The court orders the plaintiff to furnish the defendant with a 
copy of his demand, to file his answer thereto on the next court 
day. 

Anderies Herbertsen, plaintiff, against Claes Teunissen. 
defendant. 



Court Minutes, 1 652-1 656 307 

The plaintiff exhibits his power of attorney. 

The court refers the parties to the previously issued order. 

Frans Barentsen Pastoor, plaintiff, against Jan van Bremen 
and Pieter Bronck, defendants. 

The parties failing to appear, the second default is taken 
against Jan van Bremen and the first default against Pieter 
Bronck. 

Claes Hendericksen, plaintiff, against Gerrit Slechtenhorst, 
defendant. 

The defendant produces Jan de Ret *'^ as a witness, who testi- 
fies that he was present when the copy [321] of the lease 
between the parties was changed or added to and that he heard 
the defendant simply grant the use of the yard in question to the 
plaintiff, but that he did not hear him give any consent to build 
thereon. 

•^Jan Dareth. 

Finis 



INDEX 



Abeel, Stoffel Jansen, see Jansen, 

Stoffel 
Abrahams, Matteus, 305 
Adriaensen, Jacob, wheelwright, lot, 
18, 187; to finish wagon, 72; 
house sold to Cornelis Seger- 
sen, 98, 137, 275, 276; to testify 
in court, 153, 156; attachment 
of money due to, 242; money 
of, paid to Rutger Jacobsen, 
286; 
sues Van Brernen, 96 ; Van 

Loosdrecht, 153, 165, 169; 
sued for wages, 133, 134; for 
debt, 135, 136, 137 ; by Ryver- 
dingh, 259 
Adriaensen, Jan, 155 
Adriaensen, Pieter, permission to 
tap, 45; fined for unlawful 
tapping, 51; sues Cornelis 
Vos, 121 ; petition regarding 
attachment of beer, 202; 
sued for wages, 122, 123; for 
debt, 294 
Adriaensen, Rut, see Arentsen, Rut- 
ger 
Aelbrechts, Femmitge, see Alberts, 

Femmetgen 
Aeltgie (Fair Alida), 262, 284. See 

also Jans, Aelgen 
Aertsen, Aert, 70 
Aertsen, Wouter, see Van Piitten, 

Wouter Aertsen 
Albert, the carpenter, see Gerritsen, 

Albert 
Alberts (Aelbrechts), Femmetgen, 
examination of, 26; sued for debt, 
73, 219; widow of Hendrick Jan- 
sen Westerkamp, 182 ; sues De 
Wolff and Slichtenhorst, 214, 215, 
217; called Geverts, 219; money 
belonging to, 243 ; married to 
Michiel Antonisz, 282; marriage 
annulled, 283 
Albertsen (Aelbertsen), Barent, 185, 
272 



Albertsen, Willem, complaints 
against by De Hooges, 36, 43; 
fighting, 36, 37 ; settlement 
with Dyckman, 136; paid for 
lease of yacht, 140; 
sues Clomp 35; Bronck, 141; 

Gerbertsen, 168, 171 ; 
sued for beavers, 31 ; by Dirck 
Nes, 32 ; for stealing a cheese, 
36; by Schuyler, for contempt 
of court, 66, 67; for debt, 74, 
108, 130, 140; for return of a 
jack, 172 
Allerton, Isaac, 147 
Andriessen (Bradt), Albert, sues 
Herpertsen, 95, 131 ; payment to, 
131; son-in-law, 136; requests a 
lot, 185; prosecuted for holding 
separate divine service and attach- 
ment of house rent, 251, 255, 258 
Andriessen (Bradt), Arent, oath of 
burgher, 49 ; dispute about a gun, 
154; loan of money to Director 
General, 162; testimony, 214, 215, 
219 
Andriessen (Driess, Van Driest), 

Hendrick, 20, 140, 298 
Andriessen, Luykas, 108 
Andryesen, Jan, 190 
Antonisen, Michiel, 282, 283 
Appel, Adriaen Jansen, see Jansen 

(Appel), Adriaen 
Arent the Noorman, see Andriesen 

(Bradt), Arent 
Arentsen, Rutger, petition for lot, 
16; sues Jacobsen, 54; promise 
to marry Giertgen Nannix, 57 ; 
death, 132; house, 211; settle- 
ment 0+ estate, 268 
sued for debt, 53, 7i; for 
slander, 56, 65 ; for wages, 95. 
118; by Bout, 27; by Jansen, 
68 ; by Gerritsen, 85, 93 
Ariaen from Alckmaer, see Pieter- 
sen, Ariaen 



3IO 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Backer, Jacob, 232 

Backer, Jochim, see Wesselsen, 

Jochem 
Bamboes (Bambus), Herman Jacob- 
sen, prosecuted for violating 
ordinances, 241, 303; com- 
plaints against, for unlawful 
acts at his tavern, 243, 260, 
261, 262, 271 ; appearance in 
court, 272; 
sues Margaret Chambers, 275 ; 

Jochem Wesselsen, 279; 
sued by De Deckere, 261 ; for 
debt, 264, 274, 279 
Banker (Bancker), Gerrit, 226, 229, 

230, 233, 234 
Barentsen (Barens), Foppe, 297, 

301, 302, 305, 306 
Barentsen, Frans, see Pastoor, Frans 

Barentsen 
Barentsen, Jan, 293 
Bastiaensen, Harmen, house, 16, 114; 
misdemeanors, 46, 57; work on 
Company's house, 47; engaged 
as surveyor, 79, 187; ordered 
to pay collector for goods, 84; 
requests payment of wages, 
107; to build bridge, 143; 
referee, 154, 155; loan of 
money to Director General, 
162; wife Hestor, 210; to be 
upheld in capacity of surveyor, 
217; testimony, 302; prose- 
cuted for violating ordinances, 
303; 
sues Sanders, 27; Hendricksen, 
53; Jansen, 54; Croon, 72; 
Adriaensen, 122, 123; Jacob- 
sen, 263; 
sued for receipt for beavers, 31 ; 
about a lot, 147, 156 
Becker, Jochem, see Wesselsen, 

Jochem 
Beeckman, Willem 163 
Bembo, Jan, soldier, 84, 142 
Bensingh (Bensinck, Bentsingh), 
Dirck, garden, 21, 64, 157, 15S; 
sale of house and garden, 33; 
appeal to, 72; purchase of 
yacht, 93; survey of lot, 117; 



Bensingh (Bensinck, Bentsingh), 
Dirck — Continued 

asks for more ground, 131; 
brother-in-law, 252; 
sues Herpertsen, 58, 65 ; Ryckert- 

sen, 243; 
sued for abusive language, 130, 
276 ; for canceling purchase of 
a house, 279 
Berck, Willem, 257 
Biermans (Bierman), Hendrick, 133, 

136, 141 
Bogardus, Annetgen, 41, 44, 83, 107, 

200 
Bont (Bout), Piet, wounded by Jan 
Gouw, 191 ; prosecuted by De 
Deckere, 245 ; for violence at house 
of Bamboes, 261, 271 ; referees to 
consider case, 277; fined, 280 
Boon, Cornelis, 254 
Boot, Dirck Claessen, 30 
Borremans (Forremans), Frans, 86, 

88 
Bos, Cornelis Teunissen, see Van 

Westbroeck, Cornelis Teunissen 
Boucher, Pierre, 90 
Bout, Piet, see Bont, Piet 
Bout, Willem Fredericksen, bails- 
man, 40, 46, 71; horse mill, 
SI. 53, 113; ordered to pay 
collector for goods, 84; com- 
plaints about various actions 
at his house, 86, 94, 108, no, 
121, 300; request to pay taps- 
■ ters' excise in lump sum, 97; 
testimony against Clomp, 107; 
trade in beer, 138, 142, 143, 
148 ; to build bridge, 143 ; 
money due to, 148, 196; sued 
for sale of horses, 150; loan 
of money to Director General, 
163; appears in court for Stoll, 
165 ; statement on nicknames 
of houses, 201; wife of, 239; 
referee, 250; 
prosecuted about lot, 83; for 
slander and assault, 86; for 
serving liquor on Sunday, 
224; 
sues Arentsen, 27 ; Jacobsen, 144, 
147; Teunissen, 69 



COURT MINUTES, 1652-1656 



311 



Bouts, Geertgen, wife of Willem 
Fredericksen Bout, 220. See also 
Nanningh (Nannix), Geertgen 

Boutsen, Cors, 184, 185, 186, 195, 201 

Bradt, Albert Andriessen, see An- 
driessen, Albert 

Bradt, Arent Andriessen, see An- 
driessen, Arent 

Brant, Adriaen Claessen, 169 

Brant, Jan Claesen, 48, 51 

Brantsen, Evert, 46 

Bronck, Pieter, lot, 18; fighting at 
his house, 56, 86, 108, 118; 
bailsman, 58; asks for exten- 
sion of time for building on 
lots, 133 ; loan of money to 
Director General, 163; testi- 
mony about Jacob Plodder, 
191 ; enjoined from tapping 
beer, 219; surety for, 236; 
mentioned, 94; 
sues Michielsen, 29; van Bremen, 
43, 276, 278; Herpertsen, S^, 
92 ; Thomassen, 89 ; Jansen, 
154; Pietersjen, 171, 178; 
Plodder, 178; Gerritsen, 281; 
Teunissen, 250, 259; Marten- 
sen, 285 ; 
sued by Joost the baker, 20, 24, 
28; for debt, 34, 41, 50, 198, 
281 ; by Jacobsen, 35 ; about 
his lot, 83 ; by Albertsen, 141 ; 
about payment for grain, 214, 
215, 219; by Pastoor, 307 

Brouwer, Jacob de, see Gerritsen, 
Jacob, brewer 

Brouwer, Pieter, 301 

Bruynen, Pieter, 262 

Bruynsen (Brynsen), Auckes (An- 
ker), 133, 263 

Buildings, occupied by court, 10 



Calendar of the minutes, il 

Canaqueese, an Indian, 91 

Carstensen (the Noorman), Carsten, 
lot, 138, 185, 220; suit for recovery 
of beavers, 236; wife, 242; sued 
for debt, 275 



Carstensen (Cassersen), Hendrick, 

45 
Chambers (Clabborts), Margriet, 

275 
Chambers (Chambre, Clabbort, 
Chiambers), Thomas, lot, 245; 
accounts with Slecht, 262; 
moneys in custody of, 281, 
296 ; mentioned, 106, 226 ; 
prosecuted for slanderous re- 
marks about court, 300; 
sues de Forrest, 17; Jacobsen, 
224; Jacob Stol, 244; 246; 
252; 
sued by Anna de Hulter, 277, 
281, 299; for debt, 281 
Clabbort, Thomas, see Chambers, 

Thomas 
Clabbort, Margriet, see Chambers, 

Margriet 
Claes, Marritgen, 133 
Claessen, Ariaen, 179, 183, 187, 207 
Claessen, Dirrick, see Boot, Dirck 

Claesen 
Claessen, Tierck, lot, 264; sues 
Powell, 253; 
prosecuted for fighting, 245, 247; 
for being with Lutherans, 

247; 
sued by Leendertsen, 254; for 
debt, 292 ; for house rent, 306 

Clauw, Frans Pietersen, see Pieter- 
sen, Frans 

Cleyn, see Kleyn 

Clomp (Klomp), Jacob Symonsen, 
complaint about attachment of 
money, 94; abusive language, 
94, 107, 108, no; fined, in; 
money sent to Director Gen- 
eral in sloop of, 162; men- 
tioned, 71, 96, 183, 184; 
prosecuted for fighting, 21 ; for 
selling brandy to savages, 69, 

70, 71. 74; 

sues Croon, 29; van Bremen, 73, 
loi; 

sued for debt, 29, 30; for re- 
turn of boards, 35 ; for non- 
delivery of wheat, 66; about 
lot, 83; for payment of fine, 



312 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Clomp (Klomp), Jacob Symonsen — 
Continued 

85; for wages, 172; for failure 
to deliver hogs, 183, 184 

Clomp, Jan, 29 

Clootendraeyer, Hendrick, 303 

Cnyver, Claes Thysen, 130 

Cobes (Cobus), Ludovicus, asks 
permission to keep school, 238 ; 
attorney for Jan Peeck, 291, 297; 
sues the wife of Jeles Fonda, 294; 
sues Frans Barentsen Pastoor, 301. 
See also Jacobussen, Loys 

Coenraets, Hans, 242, 250 

Coeymans, Barent Pietersen, see 
Pietersen, Barent 

Coeymans, Luykas Pietersen, see 
Pietersen, Luykas 

Colebrantsen, Pieter, 262 

Coninck (Koninck), Thomas, 149 

Cornelis, Broer, see Teunissen, Cor- 
nells, from Breuckelen 

Cornelis, the Swede, 180, 181 

Cornelis, Lysbet, 53, 93, loi, 135, 
146 

Cornelissen, Arent, see Vogel, Arent 
Cornelisen 

Cornelissen (Van den Berch, Van 
den Hoogen Bergh), Claes, 117, 
132, 279 

Cornelissen, Cornelis, 277, 278, 282 

Cornelissen, Cornelis, the younger, 
302 

Cornelissen, Gysbert, from Breuc- 
kelen, 210 

Cornelissen, Gysbert, from Weesp, 
wife, 53, 102; lot, 61, 89, in; de- 
ceased, 89; guardians of children, 
146 

Cornelissen, Lambert, 69 

Cornelissen, Marten, see Van Yssel- 
steyn. Marten Cornelisen 

Cornelissen, Pieter, wife of, 183 

Cornelissen, Poulus, 279 

Cornelissen (Van Voorhout), Seeger, 
169, 172 

Cornelissen, Teunis, see Van Slinger- 
lant, Teunis Cornelisen; Van 
Vechten, Teunis Cornelisen 



Court, jurisdiction, 7, 8-9; buildings 

occupied by, 10 
Court records, handwriting, 12 
Cramer, Barent, 50 
Croaet (Crabaat, Crowaet), Abra- 
ham Stevensen, 118, 183, 184, 191, 
300 
Croon (Kroon), Claes Cornelissen, 

33, 41, 68 
Croon (Kroon), Dirck Jansen, money 
due to, 141 ; house nicknamed, 
200; magistrate, 236; to re- 
quest contributions for Wil- 
lem Jurriaensen, 255 ; 
sues Bastiaensen, 31, 57 ; Groot, 

284; 
sued about axhandle planks, 29; 
regarding disputed accounts, 
72, See also Jansen, Dirrick 

Daniel, the baker, see Rinckhout, 
Daniel 

Daret, Jan, sued by van Aecken, z8, 
29, 33; by Jansen, 34; testimony 
regarding Catelyn Sanders, 231 ; 
witness for Gerrit Slichtenhorst, 
307 

Davidts (Davits, Davitsen), Chris- 
toffel, complaints about selling 
brandy to savages, 71, 88, 106; 
letter to from Director General, 
190; transfer of claim to Pieter 
Bronck, 281 ; sued for debt, 292, 
296, 304 ; mentioned, 93 

De Deckere, Johannes appointed 
commissary, 223 ; salary, request 
for, 249; to request contributions 
for Willem Jurriaensen, 255 

De Forest (Forrest), Isaack, 17 

De Goyer, Eldert, 141 

De Graef, Jan, 293 

De Hinsse, Surgeon Jacob, 149, 191, 
196, 293 

De Hooges, Anthony, offensive con- 
duct of Albertsen toward, 36, 43; 
petition from, 136; referee, 134, 
184; lot, 137; garden, 158; charges 
against Claes Ripsen, 188; state- 



COURT MINUTES, 1652-1656 



313 



De Hooges, Anthony — Continued 
ment regarding nicknames given to 
houses, 198; house, 200; men- 
tioned, 78, 159, 193, 205 
De Hulter, Johan, servant, 88, 106, 
207; house, 109, 113, 114; brings 
further suit, 116; sues Albertsen, 
172 ; requests letters of recom- 
mendation to the honorable coun- 
cil, 230; widow, 262; mentioned, 
131, 190 
De Hulter (Thullert), Madam Jo- 
hanna, agreement with Cham- 
bers and Stol about grain, 
252; mentioned, 262; 
sues Chambers, 277, 281, 299; 
Jacobsen, 298 ; Hendricksen, 
299; Gouw, 302 
De Karreman, Michiel, 210 
De Looper, Jacob, see Teunissen, 

Jacob 
De Paus, 168 
De Truy, Susanna, 205 
De Visscher (Visser), Jan, 52, 58 
De Vlamingh, Pieter, 219. See also 

Winnen (VVinne), Pieter 
De Vos, Andries, lot, 69, 97, 173 ; 
request for pasture, 107; gar- 
den, 112, 173; attorney for 
Vosburgh, 155, 173 ; petition 
of, 160; summoned to court, 
164, 210; requests copy of 
testimony, 222; judgment 
against, 224; mentioned, 157, 
210; sued by Jacobsen, 225; 
sues Gerritsen and others, 190, 
192; Bronck, 281 
De Vries, Adriaen Dircksen, 184, 239 
De Wever, see Martensen, Jan 
De Winter, Maximiliaen, 87 
De Wit, Tierck Claessen, see Claes- 

sen, Tierck 
De Wolff, Jacob Willemsen, see 

Willemsen, Jacob 
Dingeman, Adam, 201 
Dirck (Dirrick), Oom, 150, 199 
Dircksen, Adriaen, see De Vries, 

Adriaen Dircksen 
Dircksen, Jan, see Van Bremen, Jan 
Dircksen 



Dircksen (Dirricksen), Theunis, 132, 
268 

Douw, Volckert Jansen, see Jansen, 
Volckert 

Douwesen GilHs, see Fonda, Gillis 
Douwesen 

Driescn, Hendrick, see Andriessen, 
Hendrick 

Dutch records, act of lydS providing 
for translation of, 12 

Dyckman, Joannes, on committee to 
survey lots, 16; on committee to 
provide for support of church, 28; 
lot, 61, 196; authorized to inspect 
houses of tapsters, 81 ; complaint 
against, 94; to prepare case, 96; 
protest against Dominie Schaets' 
announcement, 99; reads protest 
regarding Slichtenhorst, 119; cases 
referred to, 134; to pay Willem 
Albertsen, 136; to examine ac- 
counts of collector, 142; report on 
lot for Adriaen Jansen, 159; loan 
of money to Director General, 162; 
gives presents to Maquas, 171 ; on 
committee to confer with Director 
General, 174; wife, 203, 204, 207, 
268, 292; successor as commissary, 
223 ; settlement of Rut Arentsen's 
estate, 268; mentioned, 60, 62, 102, 
106, 127 

Dyckmans, Maritge, 250, 275, 278 

Eeckelen, Jan, see Van Eeckel, Jan 

Janssen 
Eencluys, Hans Jansen, see Inckluis, 

Hans Jansen 
Egberts, Egbert j en, 286, 287 
Flbertsen, Reyer, 19 
Eldertsen (Eldersen), Ysbrant, 21I, 

292 
Evertsen, Jurgen, 86, 88 

Fernovi^, Berthold, 11 

Plodder, Jacob Jansen, prosecuted 
for fighting, 56; fined for not 
building on lot, 148; complaint 
against, 191 ; slanderous words 
about court, 217, 221; money 
to be paid to, 221; lot, 264; 



314 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Flodder, Jacob Jansen — Continued 
sues Bensingh, 93 ; Margaret 

Slichtenhorst, 260; 
sued for slander, 25 ; about sale 
of horses, 150, 152; for wages, 
172, 175; for debt, 178 
Floris, Isaack, 239 
Fonda, Gillis Douwesen, 70, 294 
Forremans, Frans, see Borremans, 

Frans 
Fredericksen, Carsten, 195, 295 
Fredericksen, Meyndert, 236, 284 
Fredericksen, Willem, see Bout, 
Willem Fredericksen 

Gabrielsen, Frans, 37, 39, 40 
Gansevoort, Harmen Harmensen, 243 
Gardenier, Jacob Jansen, see Flod- 
der, Jacob 
Gauw, Jan, see Gouw, Jan 
Geraerdy (Gerary), Philip, 32 
Gerbertsen, Elbert, prosecuted for 
fighting, 56, 57; bail for, 58; 
fined for failure to inclose lot, 
148 
sues Clomp, 183, 184; garden, 

201 ; 
sued about sale of horses, 150; 
for costs of summons, 168, 171 
Gerbrantsen, Cornelis, 172 
Gerret, the cooper, 41. See also 

Jansen, Gerrit, from Swoll 
Gerritsen, Albert, garden, 84 ; 

prosecuted for fighting, 69; for 

violating ordinances, 303 ; 
sues Herpertsen, 85; Arentsen, 
93, 95. 118 
Gerritsen, Claes, lot and garden, jy, 
102 ; sues van Slichtenhorst, 
135, 142, 144; testimony re- 
garding house of Thomas 
Sanders, 179; accused of giv- 
ing nicknames to houses, 198, 
201 ; testimony regarding Cor- 
nelis Vos, 213; restitution of 
beavers in his custody, 228; 
sued, about taking grain from a 
barn, 190; about a wagon, 209, 
2IQ 



Gerritsen, Ellert, 83 

Gerritsen, Goosen, crime against 
daughter, 37; lot, 51; fined for 
not building on lot, 83 ; pay- 
ment of account for beer, 94; 
testimony in trial of Jacob 
Stoll, 105; prosecuted by 
Dyckman, 107; curator of 
Arentsen's estate, 132, 268; 
payment to for nails, 137; 
palisades inclosing lot, 149; 
requests permission to form 
corral for cattle, 154; loan of 
money to Director General, 
163 ; gives presents to Maquas, 
171 ; referee, 173, 184, 212, 244, 
250; testimony on use of a 
barn, 192 ; house nicknamed, 
199; testimony regarding Cate- 
lyn Sanders, 231 ; magistrate, 
269; mentioned, 66, 73, 147; 
sues Arentsen, 53 ; Herpertsen, 
13s ; Gansevoort, 243 ; Vos- 
burgh, 274, 278; Pietersen, 
291 ; Davidts, 292 ; Teunissen, 
292, 303; Van Valckenburgh, 
292 

Gerritsen, Hendrick, prosecuted for 
drinking after ringing of the 
bell, 117; fined for not build- 
ing on lot, 145; garden, 185; 
house and lot, 211 ; 
sued by van Hoesen, 284; for 
slander, 298; by Vandenburgh, 
300, 302 

Gerritsen, Jacob, carpenter, 57, 108, 
130, 281 

Gerritsen, Jacob, the brewer, l8 

Gerritsen, Wynant, 145, 166 

Geverts, Femmetgen Alberts, see 
Alberts, Femmetgen 

Glen, Sander Leendertsen, see Leen- 
dertsen, Sander 

Goosens (Goossens), Maria, 223, 247. 
See also Jans, Maria 

Gottenborgh, Jan Jansen, see Jansen, 
Jan 



COURT m;inutes, 1652-1656 



315 



Gouw (Gauw, Gou), Jan, sues Jacob- 
sen, 156, 292, 297; testimony- 
regarding fighting at Jochem- 
sen's house, 166; attack on 
Bout, 191 ; lot, 220 ; testimony 
on fighting at house of Baefge 
Pieters, 257; 

prosecuted for fighting, 55, 57; 
for violating ordinances, 303 ; 

sued for debt, 153, 247, 274, 302; 
by Jansen, 235 ; by Ryver- 
dingh, 239; by Abrahamsen, 

305 
Greenen Bosch, 7, 220 
Groot, S3^mon, 145, 284 
Gysbertsen, Albert, 305 

Hansen, Volckert, see Jansen, Volc- 
kert 

Hap, Jacob Jansen, see Stol, Jacob 
Jansen 

Hap, Willem, see Stol (Hap), 
Willem 

Haps, Geertruy, 280 

Harmen, the carpenter, see Bastiaen- 
sen, Harmen 

Harmensen, Dirckie, 289, 290 

Harmensen, Harmen, see Ganse- 
voort, Harmen Harmensen 

Hartgers (Hertgers, Harties), Pieter, 
referee, 27, 93; magistrate, 42, 126, 
139, 236; fined for not inclosing 
garden, 83 ; sued for payment for 
goods, 134, 13s ; money due to, 
141, 196; lot, 145, 212, 276; ap- 
pointed guardian, 146; loan of 
money to Director General, 163 ; 
gives presents to Maquas, 171 ; 
conveyance of houses, 197; house 
nicknamed, 200; bed sold to, 214, 
216; appointed treasurer of court, 
214, 215; dispute about pint meas- 
ure, 220; sentence decreed against 
advice of, 225 ; sues Bamboes, 264 ; 
grant of land to, 255; gift for re- 
pairing Jurriaensen's house, 256; 
surety for payment for block- 
house church, 263 ; mentioned, 17, 
66, 150, 223 



Helmensen, Jan (Jan with the 

beard), 260 
Hendrick, alias the " Styve Snyder," 

303 
Hendrick, the baker, see Hendrick- 

sen, Hendrik 
Hendrick, the tailor, alias " Cor- 

diael," 303 
Hendrick Clootendraeyer (ball 

turner), 303 
Hendricksen, 191, 221 
Hendricksen, Claes, loan of money 
to Director General, 163; 
surety for Plodder, 172, 175; 
testimony regarding Maria 
Jans, 179, 180; lot, 187, 245; 
house, 197 ; fined, 242 ; money 
in custody of, 242; sues Slich- 
tenhorst, 304, 307 ; 
sued for house rent, 209; by 
Swart, 210; for return of 
beavers, 237 
Hendricksen, Cornells, 53 
Hendricksen, Frederick, 291 
Hendricksen, Gerrit, 300 
Hendricksen, Geurt (Govert), 220, 

298, 299, 303 
Hendricksen, Hendrik, 278, 285, 303 
Hendricksen, Jacob, see Maat, Jacob 
Hendricksen ; Sibbinck, Jacob 
Hendricksen 
Hendricksen, Jan, sued by Dyckman, 
117; to build bridge, 143; loan of 
money to Director General, 162; 
house, 179, 184; sues van Aecken, 
179; sues Jan Baptist van Rensse- 
laer, 244 
Hendricksen, Marten, bailsman, 40; 
sued for debt, 55, 58, 64, 66, 154, 
155, 194; complaint about Seeger 
Cornelisen, 168; to contribute for 
bridge, 169; mentioned, 17 
Herbertsen (Herpertsen), Andries, 
referee, 18, 64, 102, 209; 
garden, 95 ; letter to from mem- 
bers of court, 113; memo- 
randum for, 114; magistrate, 
126, 236; dispute with Van 
Valckenborgh, 136; term of 



3i6 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Herbertsen (Herpertsen), Andries 
— Continued 

office expired, 139; accounts 
with Keese Waeye, 156; ques- 
tioned in court on various 
matters, 158; loan of money to 
Director General, 162; gives 
presents to Maquas, 171 ; 
house nicknamed, 199; gift for 
repairing Jurriaensen house, 
256; sentence rendered con- 
trary to his judgment, 281 ; 
statement on selling liquor to 
savages, 299; attorney of 
Goosen Gerritsen, 303; case of 
slander, 303 ; mentioned, 49, 
131, 133, 138, 165, 168, 290; 
sues Femmetgen Westerkamp, 
182; Claes Teunissen, 306 

Herpertsen, Marten, lot, 45, 83 ; sale 
of house and garden, 94, 109, 
113, 114; complaints by cred- 
itors, 137 ; 
sued for debt, 32, 38, 65, 82, 83, 
85. 92, 93, 95, 97, loi, 131, 135, 
140, 141, 144, 145, 148, 170; 
by van Hoesen, 58 ; by the Vis- 
scher, 58; by Bensingh, 58 

Hertgers, Pieter, see Hartgers, Pieter 

Higge (Higgins), Thomas, 29, 30 

Hoffmeyer, Willem, summoned to 
court, 118; fined, 277; pun- 
ished for selling beer to sav- 
ages, 288; 
sued by Jansen, 235, 247; by 
Bamboes, 275 ; for debt, 278, 
279; by Wesselsen, 298 

Hollenbeck, C. A., li 

Hoogenboom, Cornelis Pietersen, 293 

Houses, nicknames given to, 198-200, 
210, 213 

Houtewael, Cornelis, 172, 175 

Houttum, Willem, 156 

Inckluis, (Eencluys), Hans Jansen, 

194 
Indians, sale of liquors to, 69, 70, 71, 

74, 88, 106, 164, 167, 286-91 



Jacob, the brewer, see Gerritsen, 
Jacob, brewer 

Jacob, the carpenter, see Gerritsen, 
Jacob, carpenter 

Jacobs (Jacops), Grietgen, 201, 282 

Jacobs, Tryntgen, 168 

Jacobs, Wybregh (Brecht), 38, 210 

Jacobsen, Abraham, 86, 88, 198 

Jacobsen (Jacopsen), Aert, 54 

Jacobsen, Andries, 231 

Jacobsen, Caspar, 18 

Jacobsen, Claes, 68, 185, 213, 215, 263 

Jacobsen, Cornelis, 32, 35 

Jacobsen, Herman, petition to qualify 
as beer carrier, 218; 
sues Hendricksen, 209; Wessel- 
sen, 282; Roeloffsen and 
others, 300; Stevensen, 306; 
sued by Gouw, 292, 297 ; by 
Johanna de Hulter, 298 

Jacobsen (Jacopsen), Roeloff, sues 
Gouw, 153; Tryntgen Jacobs, 
168; Inckluis, 194; Marten the 
farmer, 244; 
sued for debt, 94, 95, 133; for 
house rent, 153 ; by Gouw, 156 

Jacobsen, Rutger, referee, 20, 51, 102, 
173, 212; boards belonging to, 
35 ; opinion on tapsters' ex- 
cise, 44; residence, 48; at- 
torney for Jan van Hoesen, 49, 
52, 55 ; money for, from 
Clomp, 94; letter to from 
members of court, 113; horse 
mill, 113; memorandum for, 
114; magistrate, 126, 236; pay- 
ment for boards, 131 ; curator 
of Arentsen's estate, 132, 268; 
term of office expired, 139; 
garden, 140, 217; hires yacht, 
140; requests permission to 
form corral for cattle, 154; 
gives presents to Maquas, 171 ; 
charges against Claes Ripsen, 
188; house nicknamed, 199; 
testimony, 226, 231; judgment 
in favor of, 228; rejects Johan 
de Deckere's request for 



COURT MINUTES, 1652-1656 



317 



Jacobsen, Rutger — Continued 

salary, 249; water wheel for a 
small mill, 255; gift for re- 
pairing Jurriaensen's house, 
256 ; money paid to, 285 ; men- 
tioned, 22, 29, 30, 70, 135, 142, 
144, 255, 290; 
sues Clomp, 66; Albertsen, 140; 

Femmetgen Alberts, 219; 
sued by Fredericksen, 144, 147; 
for wages, 267 
Jacobsen (Jacopsen), Teunis, 18, 188, 

224, 225, 303 
Jacobusen, Loys, 205. See also 

Cobes, Ludovicus 
Jan de Cuyper, see Schut, Jan 
Jan, the soldier, see Bembo, Jan. 
Jan, the weaver, see Martensen, Jan 
Jan with the beard, see Helmensen, 

Jan 
Jans, Aelgen, 210. See also Aeltgie 

(Fair Alida) 
Jans, Jannitge, 239, 278 
Jans, Maria, sale of brandy to 
savages, 179, 187, 191 ; sues Croaet, 
183, 191 ; dispute about a water 
pail, 190 ; must pay for bed, 214, 
216; dispute about a pint measure, 
220; ordered to suspend tapping, 
221. See also Goosens, Maria 
Jans, Marritgen, 37. See also Ryver- 

dingh, Marriecke 
Jans, Volckgen, see Jurriaens, Volck- 

gen 
Jansen (Appel), Adriaen, from Ley- 
den, marriage, 23, 26; lot, 53, 
61, 82, 159; referee, 57, 93; 
testimony of what occurred at 
the house of Fredricksen, 108, 
no; nominated magistrate, 
126 ; loan of money to Director 
General, 163; charges against 
Claes Ripsen, 197; statement 
regarding nicknames given to 
houses, 198; ordered to build 
on lot, 263; fined, 284; dispute 
about an anker of brandy, 
305 ; mentioned, 107, 205 ; 
sues Westerkamp, 34; Daret, 34; 



Jansen (Appel), Adriaen — Con- 
tinued 

Bronck, 34; van Valcken- 
burgh, 34; van Bremen, 43 

Jansen, Claes, from Baarn, appointed 
inspector, 122, 154; report, 155; 
testimony, 219; fined, 260, 261; 
referee, 263 

Jansen, Claes, from Rotterdam, 122, 
150, 199 

Jansen, Dirck, 16, 17, 54, 66. See 
also Croon, Dirck Jansen 

Jansen, Fop, 267 

Jansen, Gerrit, from Swoll, house 
sold by, loi ; testimony, 105, 136; 
magistrate, 126; loan of money to 
Director General, 162 ; house nick- 
named, 199; mentioned, 131. See 
also Gerrit, the cooper 

Jansen, Harman, see Van Valcken- 
burgh, Herman Jansen 

Jansen, Hendrick, the cowherd, ac- 
cused of making lampoons, 248, 
251 ; fighting, 254, 257 ; prosecuted 
by de Deckere, 254, 260, 272; men- 
tioned, 271 

Jansen, Hendrick, see also Reur, 
Hendrick Jansen ; Westerkamp, 
Hendrick Jansen 

Jansen, Herman, 184, 186 

Jansen, Huybert, de guyt, 154, 233, 
284, 300 

Jansen, Jacob, see Flodder, Jacob 
Jansen; Schermerhoorn, Jacob 
Jansen; Stol (Hap), Jacob Jansen 

Jansen, Jan, sues Albertsen, 31; 
money due to, 38; power of at- 
torney to Rem Jansen, 82 ; holds 
mortgage on house, 116; power of 
attorney given to, 156; sued for 
debt, 221. See also Van Eeckel, 
Jan Janssen 

Jansen, Juriaen, 223, 224, 266, 271, 

293 

Jansen, Karsten, 162 

Jansen, Laurens, petition, 41 ; fight- 
ing, 75, 96; testimony on sale of 
brandy to savages, 88; testimony 
on shooting by Stol, 107, in; 
house, 145, 211; mentioned, 83, 106 
236 



3i8 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Jansen, Marcelis, servant of Mr de 
Hulter, 88; complaint of as- 
sault, 184, 185, 206; testimony, 
106, 213, 214, 215, 219, 302; 
prosecuted for serving drinks 
during divine service, 235 ; 
sues De Paus, 168; Pot, 225; 
Vervvegen, 225; Hendricksen, 
242; Rinckhout, 253; Loserik, 
268; Adriaensen, 294; 
sued by Herpertsen, 281 ; by van 
Curler, 305 
Jansen, Michiel, 282 
Jansen, Paulus, the Noorman, 239 
Jansen, Rem, referee, 27, 29, 93, 184, 
209; demands payment of bond, 
82; fined, 83; loan of money to 
Director General, 163; lot, 210; 
house and lot, 211; sues Willem 
Hap, 222; mentioned, 96, 284 
Jansen, RoeloflF, 130 
Jansen, Steven, wife, 179, 183, 187, 
191, 203, 204, 214, 216, 220, 221, 
223; assault on, 207; sued by 
van Loosdrecht, 209, 254, 259, 
275; fighting with Jacob Hen- 
dricksen Maat, 221; men- 
tioned, 207, 211, 254; 
sues Hendricksen, 55, 64, 154, 
155; Arentsen, 68; Jacobsen, 
94, 95; Croaet, 184; Hofmeyer, 
235 ; Jan Jansen, 221 ; Jacob 
Teunissen, 246 
Jansen (Abeel), Stoflfel, carpenter, 

97, 150, 166, 263 
Jansen (Mingael), Thomas, 61, 72, 
159, 163. See also Mingael, Tomas 
Janssen 
Jansen (Hansen, Douw), Volckert, 
to oversee surveying of lots, 
16, 48, 51; referee, 18, 22, 52, 
93; opinion on tapsters' ex- 
cise, 44; Becker's attack on, 
62; magistrate, 126, 216, 269; 
sued for debt, 134, 135 ; money 
due to, 141 ; testimony regard- 
ing Vosburgh's lot, 159; loan 
of money to Director General, 



Jansen (Hansen, Douw) Volckert — 
Continued 

163; gives presents to Ma- 
quas, 171 ; house nicknamed, 
200; request concerning lot of 
poorhouse, 216; sentence de- 
creed against advice of, 225, 
239; rejects Johan de Deck- 
ere's request for salary, 249; 
grant of land to, 255; gift for 
repairing Jurriaensen's house, 
256; mentioned, 55, 66, 259; 
sues Becker, 23; Bronck, 24, 41, 
50; Bamboes, 264 
Jeronimus, Geertruy, sued for abu- 
sive language and assault, 17, 19, 
21, 25; fined, 26; sues Styntgen 
Laurens and Volckgen Jans, 29, 
32; testimony regarding Albertsen, 
37; first default entered against 
her, 149 
Jochem, the baker, sec Wesselsen, 

Jochem 
Jochemsen, Plendrick, garden, 64; 
sued for debt, 84, 291 ; sum- 
moned to testify, 96; money 
due to, 141 ; loan of money to 
Director General, 162; testi- 
mony regarding Stol and 
Dirck Lammertssen, 166; pe- 
tition for restitution of money, 
218; granted permission for 
burghers to shoot the target, 
220; fined, 241, 247; men- 
tioned, 117, 118, 165, 166, 198; 
prosecuted for fighting, 75; for 
smuggling beer, 83 
Joost, the baker, see Teunissen, 

Joost 
Jurriaen, the glazier, see Jansen, 

Juriaen 
Jurriaens (Jans), Volckgen, sues 
Geertruy Jeronimus, 17, 19, 21, 25; 
house, 22 ; sued by Geertruy Jeroni- 
mus, 32; payment of money for 
Jurriaensen, 80; testimony, 142 
Jurriaensen (Juryaensen), Willem, 
sued about lot, 17, 67, 78, 80; 
house and lot, 19, 47, 49, 52, 55, 62, 
191, 199, 210, 238; petition by, 22; 



COURT MINUTES, 1652-1656 



319 



Jurriaensen (Juryaensen), Willem — 
Continued, 

garden, 24; contract with van Hoe- 
sen, 63, 67, 78; refuses to accept 
money, 82; testimony, 118; house, 
contributions requested for repair- 
ing roof, 255 ; mentioned, 252 

Karreman, ship, 180 

Ketelhuyn, Jochem, 51, 83, 156, 263 

Keyser, Adriaen, 75 

Kleyn, Elmerhuysen, 72, 84, 164, 167 

Kleyn, Uldrick, 182, 184, 186, 187 

Knyver, see Cnyver 

Koninck, see Coninck 

Kroon, see Croon 

Labatie (Labite), Jan, referee, 18, 
21 ; to lay out land, 20 ; re- 
signs as magistrate to live in 
the colony, 42; garden, 48; 
pleads cases, 53 ; house and 
lot, 56; lot, 61, 69, 187; mag- 
istrate, 126; ordered to return 
lime, 144; loan of money to 
Director General, 163 ; men- 
tioned, 60, 65, 141 ; 
sues Clomp, 29; Westerkamp, 
32; Becker, 58, 119; Hap, 59; 
Pietersen, 144 

La Chair, Salomon, 279 

Lademaker, see Machiel, the lade- 
maker 

Lamberts, Annitge, 260, 261 

Lambertsen (Lammertsen), Poulus, 
235, 260, 261 

Lammertsen, Dirck, 165, 166, 167 

Lammertsen, Jan, 187 

La Montague, Jan, 75 

Laurens, Styntgen, 29, 32 

Lauson (Loison), Jean de, governor 
of Canada, 90 

Leen, Symon, 226 

Leendertsen, Gabriel, 82, 141, 145 

Leendertsen, Paulus, 60 

Leendertsen (Glen), Sander, ne- 
gress, 16, 24, 2"]; lot, 56, 112, 
113, 212, 276; must pay fees, 
59; to collect tax, yT, m; 
xnaeristrate. 126. 130. 269: ref- 



Leendertsen (Glen), Sander — Con- 
tinued 

eree, 140 ; money due to, 141 ; 
to build bridge, 143; gives 
presents to Maquas, 171 ; con- 
veyance of houses, 197; wife, 
231; sues Claesen, 254; gift 
for repairing Jurriaensen's 
house, 256; surety bond, 264; 
payment of money to court, 
285 ; mentioned, 247 ; 
sued for slander, 16; about sale 
of horses, 150 

Liberis, Catharina, 172 

Loison, Johan de, see Lauson, Jean 
de 

Loockermans, Pieter, 162, 237, 297, 

305 
Loosdrecht, Jacob, see Van Loos- 

drecht, Jacob Hendricksen Maat 
Loserik, Jacob, see Van Loosdrecht, 

Jacob Hendricksen Maat 
Lot, Pieter, 145, 158 
Lourensen, Lourens, 133, 148 
Luyersen (Van Kuyckendall), Ja- 
cob, house and garden, 26; 
complaint about negress, 2"]', 
sued for messenger fees, 59; 
prosecuted for abusive lan- 
guage and assault, 76, 83, 108, 
134; must pay treasurers, 130; 
must file answer to complaint, 
131; pardoned, 134; to pay 
fine, 134; mentioned, 145, 180 
sues Leendertsen, 16; Cathalina 
Sanders, 24; Plodder, 25 

Maat (Maet), Jacob Hendricksen, 
farmer of the excise, 176; re- 
quests that burghers obtain 
certificate for beer, 176-77; 
summoned to testify, 179 5 
payment for excise on wine 
and beer, 195, 222; charges 
against, 201; attachment of 
beer, 202 ; testimony, 204 ; 
judgment against, 211 ; fight- 
ing, 211, 221 ; 
sues Bronck, 198; Jansen, 209. 
See also Van Loosdrecht, Ja- 
cob Hendricksen Maat 



320 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Macheck Sipoeti (Indian), 290 

Machiel, the lademaker, 41, 44, 83 
Machielsen, Jan, see Michielsen, Jan 
Maerten, the farmer, see Van Yssel- 

steyn, Marten Cornelisen 
Maertens, Poulus, 247 
MarceHs, Hendrick, 108 
Marten, Swager, see Ottsen (Otten- 

sen), Martin 
Marten, the mason, see Herpertsen, 

Marten 
Martensen (Van Alstyne), Jan, 48, 

261, 272, 285, 301 
Marttensen, Marten, 73 
Megapolensis, Johannes, 33, 44, 185 
Melius, Wheeler B., 11 
Meussen (Messen), Pieter, 297 
Meyndert, the smith, see Frederick- 
sen, Meyndert 
Meyndertsen, Carsten, 195 
Michielsen (Machielsen), Jan, com- 
plaint about negress, 27 ; tes- 
timony at trial of Jacob Stol, 
105; to build bridge, 143; 
mentioned, 31 ; 
sues Leendertsen, 16; Cathalina 
Sanders, 20, 24; Albertsen, 
36; 
sued by Bronck, 29, 72; for mes- 
senger fees, 59 ; for debt, 282 
Mingael, Tomas Janssen, 297. See 
also Jansen, Thomas 

Nanningh (Nannix), Geertgen, 57, 
213, 214, 237, 239. See also Bouts, 
Geertgen 
Nes, Dirck, see Van Nes, Dirck 
Nicknames given to houses, 198-200 
Nolden (Nolding), Evert, 43, 44 

Otterspoor, Aert, 190 

Ottsen (Ottensen), Marten, 74, 180 

Pastoor, Frans Barentsen, excused 
from paying fine, 67; magis- 
trate, 126, 139, 223, 269; loan 
of money to Director General, 
163 ; gives presents to Maquas, 
171; lot, 212; surety for Pieter 



Pastoor, Frans Barentsen — Con- 
tinued 

Bronck, 235 ; opinion on grant- 
ing a lot, 245; asks for relief 
from certain duties, 245 ; to 
request contributions for Wil- 
lem Jurriaensen, 255 ; referee, 
277 ; mentioned, 276, 278 ; 
sues Vosburgh, 247, 250, 253, 297, 
301 ; Loserick, 268, 272 ; van 
Bremen, 301, 307; Martensen, 
301 ; Vos, 301 ; Bronck, 307 
Paulw, Tomas, see Powell, Thomas 
Pearson, Jonathan, 11-12 
Peeck, Jan, 145, 275, 291, 297 
Pels, Evert, boards delivered by, 149; 
sued for debt, 155; petition of, 
174; money due from van 
Bremen, 196, 219; wounding 
of, 210; 
sues Arentsen, 68, 71 ; van Hoe- 
sen, 154; Bronck, 214, 215, 219 
Philipsen, Leendert, 140, 147, 156, 

292, 306 
Pieter, the baker, 293 
Pieters, Baeffgen, 190, 257, 261. 284 
Pieters, Geertruyt, 173, 176 
Pietersen, Abram, see Vosburgh, 

Abraham Pietersen 
Pietersen, Ariaen, 21, 64 
Pietersen (Coeymans), Barent, 299 
Pietersen, Comelis, 190, 192. See 
also Hoogenboom, Cornelis Pieter- 
sen 
Pietersen (Clauw), Frans, 260 
Pietersen, Gillis, garden, 133, 145; 
sale of house, 144; referee, 184; 
testimony regarding a fight, 184, 
185; sued for debt, 291 
Pietersen (Coeymans), Luykas, fined 
for not building on lot, 145, 168; 
prosecuted by Dyckman, 157; gar- 
den, 158, 174; sued for debt, 171, 
178; complaints against of vio- 
lence, 184, 186; not guilty of 
charges, 195 
Pietersen, Philip, see Schuyler, 

Philip Pietersen 
Pietersen, Ryndert, 219 



COURT MINUTES, 1652-1656 



.^21 



Poest, Jan Barentsen sues Marten 
Hendricksen. 64, 66; fencing off 
lot, in; farm, 150, 190, 192; men- 
tioned, 192. See also Wemp, Jan 
Barentsen 

Pot (Pott), Cornelis, 179, 225 

Poulus, the Moorman, sec Jansen, 
Paulus 

Poulussen, Gommer, 294 

Powell (Paulw, Paul), Thomas, 
testimony, 226, 242; petition of, 
229 ; prosecuted by de Deckere, 
250, 277, 280 ; sued by Claesen, 
253 ; sues Claesen, 292 ; mentioned, 
229, 234, 241 

Pries, Evert, 297 

Prins, Willem Jansen, 108 

Quick, Jacob Teunissen, see Teunis- 
sen, Jacob 

Rensselaerswyck, court of, 9 ; con- 
solidated with court of Fort 
Orange, 9 
Reur, Hendrick Jansen, 203 
Rinckhout (Ringhaut), Daniel, pros- 
ecuted for violating ordi- 
nances, 251, 277; petition, 229; 
judgment against, 277 ; sues 
Teunissen, 284; summoned to 
court, 303 ; 
sued about grain measures, 175 ; 
for payment of excise, 253 ; 
by Bamboes 275, 279 
Ripsen (Rips, Ribsen), Claes, 68, 

188, 197, 260, 291 
Roelofsen, Jan, testimony regarding 
Jacob Stol, 109; fined for not 
building on lot, 153 ; appointed 
surveyor, 187; to build the 
block-house church, 263 ; pros- 
ecuted by de Deckere, 2^2, ; 
mentioned, 271 ; 
sued by Bamboes, 272 ; by Jacob- 
sen, 300 
Rosekrans, Lysbet. 56, 65 
Rotterdam, Claes, see Jansen, Claes, 

from Rotterdam 
Rutgertsen, Ryck, 192 



Ryckertsen, Michicl, 145, 243 
Ryverdingh, Marriecke, 23, 26. See 

also Jans, Marritgen 
Ryverdingh (Reverdingh, Ruyver- 
dingh), Pieter, fees, 17, 30; 
lot, 61 ; offers money to Jur- 
riaensen, 80, 82; certificate of 
delivery of beer and wine, to 
give, 80, 97 ; residence, 87 ; to 
make up accounts of persons 
drowned, 94 ; accounts, 142, 
176; money paid to, 237; men- 
tioned, 42, 52, 60, 84, 85 ; 
sues Luyersen and Michielsen, 
59; Jansen, 233; Gouw, 239; 
Jacob Teunissen, 246; Adri- 
aensen, 259; Jan Schut, 275; 
Bastiaensen, 279 

Sanders (Sandertsen), Cathalina, 

20, 24, 231 
Sanders (Sanderts), Thomas, gar- 
den, 65; unable to pay assess- 
ment, 119; testimony regard- 
ing Stol and Dirck Lammert- 
sen, 166; house, 179, 184; men- 
tioned, 166; 
sued by Bastiaensen, 27 ; for 
debt, 147 
Schaets, Rev. Gideon, lot, 61 ; gar- 
den, 64; announcement from pul- 
pit regarding Van Slichtenhorst, 
99, 120, 124; charges against Claes 
Ripsen, 188, 197; surety for Slich- 
tenhorst, 243; requests money for 
Schrick, 243; mentioned, 60, 66 
Schapenbout, Arent, 58 
Schellinger, Jan Tjebkens, 136 
Schcrmerhoorn (Schermerhoren), 
Jacob Jansen, insult to offi- 
cials. 20; lot, 53; garden, 64, 
67, 107, 112, 157, 158; judg- 
ment against, lOl ; to lay out 
lots, 108, 131, 133, 150; magis- 
trate, 126, 269; referee, 140; 
appointed guardian, 146 ; re- 
port on lot for Adriaen Jan- 
sen, 159; loan of money to 
Director General, 162; gives 



3^ 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Sch&rmierhoorn (Schermerhoren), 
Jacob Jansen — Continued 

presents to Maquas, 171 ; 
money paid to, 176; testi- 
monial to, 177; gone to Hol- 
land, 177, 216; mentioned, 164; 
sues Herpertsen, 85, 93 ; Adri- 
aensen, 135; Loserik, 254, 259; 
Davidts, 304 
Schools, 238 

Schrick, Paulus, 73, 243 
Schut (de Cuyper), Jan, 275 
Schut, Willem Jansen, 194, 213, 215, 

241 
Schuyler (Schuler, Scheuler, Schul- 
dert), Philip Pietersen, cases re- 
ferred to, 29, 244; lot, 33, 45, 131, 
276; sues Albertsen, 66, 67; house 
nicknamed, 199; interest in a drag 
net, 220; testimony, 226, 231; 
surety bond, 264; magistrate, 269 
Segertsen, Cornelis, island of, 24; 
house sold to, 98, 134, 135, 137; 
claim against Jacob Adriaensen, 
137; appointed guardian, 146; re- 
quest for woodland, 150; sued for 
debt, 275 
Segertsen, Gerrit, 176, 185 
Sibbinck, Jacob Hendricksen, 133, 

134, 145 
Sille, Nicasius de, 123 
Slecht, Cornelis Barentsen, 262 
Slichtenhorst, Brant, see Van Slich- 

tenhorst, Brant Aertsen 
Slichtenhorst, Gerrit, sale of brandy 
to savages, 164, 167; dispute 
about chest, 214, 215 ; fighting, 
227, 229; prosecuted for fight- 
ing. 234, 237, 238; surety for, 
243; 
sued for debt, 243; about lease 
of yard, 304, 307 
Slichtenhorst (Slechtenhorst), Mar- 

gariet, 260 
Slingerlant, Teunis, see Van Slinger- 

lant, Teunis Cornelisen 
Smit, Jan, 55, 57 

Staets, Abraham, cases referred to, 
21, 52; lot, 48, 61; to collect tax. 



Staets, Abraham — Continued 
77, III; magistrate, 126; loan of 
money to Director General, 162; 
to present powder to Indians, 175; 
payment of money to court, 285; 
mentioned, 22, 55, 60, 61 
Stevensen, Abraham, see Croaet, 

Abraham Stevensen 
Stevensen, Pieter, 306 
Stiggery, Stick, an Indian, 90 
Stoffel, the carpenter, see Jansen 

(Abeel), Stoffel 
Stoffelsen, Reyer, 291, 292 
Stol (Hap), Jacob Jansen, abusive 
words against magistrates, 26, 27 ; 
fighting, 59, 96; testimony on 
shooting by, 103, 107, 109, iii; 
ordered to present answer to 
charges, 119; money due to, 148; 
horses sold to, 150; house, 197; 
requests permission to purchase 
land, 230; prosecuted for fighting, 
238 ; fined, 238 ; appeal from sen- 
tence, 239 ; sued by Chambers, 244, 
246, 252; not punished for beating 
wife, 248; moneys in the custody 
of, 296; mentioned, 45, 52, 93, 198 
Stol (Hap), Willem Jansen, lot, 48, 
157, 187; fighting, 165, 166, 
167; testimony, 213, 215, 219; 
ordered to pay for house, 222; 
taken to guard house, 252; 
prosecuted, for drinking during 
service, 235 ; by de Deckere, 
254, 258, 261 ; 
sued by Bamboes, 279 ; by Jacob- 
sen, 282 
Stuyvesant, Peter, 7, 8, 13, 44, 270 
Swager, Marten, see Ottsen (Otten- 

sen), Marten 
Swart, Gerrit, 120, 210 
Symants, Styntge, 19 
Symon, the baker, see Volckertsen, 

Symon 
Symonsen, Arien, 274 

Tappen, Juriaen Teunissen, see 
Teunissen, Juriaen 



COURT M.INUTES, 1652 -1656 



323 



Teller (Teljer, Tellier), Willem, 
complaint against, 217; testi- 
mony, 226 ; fighting, 247 ; to 
take up monthly collection, 
245; 
prosecuted for fighting, 244 ; for 
encroachments on public road 
and slander, 266, 272, 273, 280 
Tempelier, Theunis, 218 
Ten Haer, Mariken, 73 
Tesselaer, Evert, 32, 134, 135 
Teunissen, Claes, 250, 259, 292, 303, 

306 
Teunissen (Theunesen), Cornelis, 

from Breuckelen, 42, 175 
Teunissen, Cornelis, see also Van 

Westbroeck, Cornelis Teunissen 
Teunissen (Theunisen), Jacob, 71, 

226, 246 
Teunissen (Theunissen), Joost, 20, 

28, 36, 41, 43, 50 
Teunissen (Tappan, Theunissen), 
Juriaen, denies charges against, 
20; sued for debt, 69, 284; fight- 
ing at house of, 117, 132; sues 
Baefge Pieters, 284 
Teunissen (Theunissen), Pieter, 172 
Theunisen, see Teunissen 
Thomassen, Cornelis, 95 
Thomassen, Frans, 169 
Thomassen (Witbeck), Jan, petition, 
41; magistrate, 108, 126; loan 
of money to Director General, 
163 ; gives presents to Maquas, 
171 ; house nicknamed, igrj ; 
attorney for Wemp, 210; lot, 
212; referee, 253, 254; grant 
of land to, 255; gift for re- 
pairing Jurriaensen's house, 
256; ordered to build on lot, 
263 ; examination of an Indian, 
290; mentioned, 17, 108, 138; 
sues Albertsen, 130; Schut, 194, 
213, 215; Bamboes, 264 
Thomassen, Poulus, 89 
Tbullert, Johanna, see De Hulter, 

Madam Johanna 
Thysen, Claes, 163 

Thysen, Jacques, 69, 106. See a'so 
Vander Heyden, Jacob Thysen 



Uylenspiegel, Claes, 278, 282 

Van Aecken, Jan, sued by Hen- 
dricksen, 179; house, 184; 
house nicknamed, 199; dispute 
about a chest, 297 ; mentioned, 
147; 
sues Daret, 28, 29, 33 ; Mcyn- 
dertsen, 195 ; Fredericksen, 

195 

Van Alckmaer, Ariaen, see Pieter- 
sen, Ariaen 

Van Alstyne, Jan Martensen, see 
Martensen, Jan 

Van Bremen, Jan Dircksen, indebt- 
edness, 28, 41, 196; testimony 
regarding Clomp, 70; attach- 
ment of money in hands of, 
94, 214, 215, 219; summoned 
to court, 219; prosecuted for 
various offenses, 96; by de 
Deckere, 245 ; for wounding 
Hans Vos, 248; mentioned, 29; 
sued for debt, 43, 50. 70, 73, loi ; 
for delivery of a hog, 70; for 
failure to haul logs, 246; by 
Bronck, 276, 278; by Pastoor, 

301, 307 

Van Breuckelen, Cornelis Theunesen, 

see Teunissen, Cornelis 
Van Couwenhoven, Jacob, 279 
Van Curler, Arent, 134, 305 
Van den Berch, Claes Cornelissen, 

see Cornelissen, Claes 
Van den Bergh (Berch), Arent, 154, 

300, 302 
Van den Hoogen Bergh, Claes, see 

Cornelissen, Claes 
Vander Donck, Adriaen, 193 
Vander Heyden, Jacob Thysen, 163. 

See also Thysen, Jacques 
Van Driest, Hendrick, see Andries- 

sen, Hendrick 
Van Duynkercken, Adriaen Jansen, 

see Jansen, Adriaen 
Van Eeckel (Ekel, Eeckelen), Jan 

Tanssen, 291, 296, 298, 303 
V.-in Geel, Maximiliaen, 60 
Van Groenwout, Juriaen Jansen, see 

Jansen, Juriaen 



524 



FORT ORANGE AND BEVERWYCK 



Van Hamel, Dirk, 239, 299 
Van Hoesen (Hoesem, Housen), 
Jan Franssen, lot and garden, 
18, 24, 49, 52, 55, 62, 191, 2-]2; 
wife, 19, 21, 22, 80, 142 ; house, 
47; contract with Jurriaensen, 
63, 67, 78; loan of money to 
Director General, 162; request 
concerning Jurriaensen's house, 
199, 210; gift for repairing 
Jurriaensen's house, 256; men- 
tioned, 143. 165 ; 
sues Jurriaensen, 17, 78, 80; 
Becker, 55 ; Herpertsen, 58, 
144; Gerritsen, 284; 
sued about house, 47; by Becker, 
65; for debt, 154; by de Deck- 
ere, 245 
Van Ilpendam, Adriaen Jansen, re- 
quests promotion to office of sec- 
retary, 29 ; referee, 57 ; garden, 
65 ; sued for debt, 75 ; excuses ac- 
cepted, 83 ; attack on by Stol, 104, 
105 ; day and night school, 200 
Van Kuyckendall, Jacob Luyersen, 
see Luyersen (Van Kuyckendall), 
Jacob 
Van Linthout, Abraham, 279 
Van Loosdrecht (Loserik), Jacob 
Hendricksen Maat, fighting, 
III, 118, 254, 257; attachment 
of goods, 165, 168; complaint 
against, 169; summoned to 
court, 169; lot, 186; mentioned, 
203, 271, 281 ; 
prosecuted by Dyckman, 116; 
for fighting, 254 ; by de Deck- 
ere, 261, 268, 270; 
sues Maria Jans, 187 ; Steven 

Jansen, 254, 259, 275 ; 
sued by Adriaensen, 153, 169; 
for payment for house, 254; 
by Jansen, 259; for debt, 268; 
by Pastoor, 272. See also 
Maat, Jacob Hendri-rksen 
Van Naerdcn, Hendrick Jansen. see 

Jansen, Hendrick, the cowherd 
Van Nes, Dirck, 29, 32 



Van Noortstrant, Jacob Janssen, 
303 

Van Putten (Van Petten), Wouter 
Aertsen, 20, 45 

Van Rensselaer, Jan Baptista, court 
messenger sent to, 60 ; referee, 
134 ; in possession of farm of 
Poest, 190; house nicknamed, 200; 
proposed actions against, 225; 
sued by Jan Hendricksen, 244; 
mentioned, 66, 158, 290 

\'an Schoonderwoert, Teutiis Jacob- 
sen, see Jacobsen, Teunis 

Van Schoonderwoert, Rutger Jacob- 
sen, see Jacobsen, Rutger 

Van Slichtenhorst (Slechtenhorst), 
Brant Aertsen, assault on, 76, 83; 
announcement in church concern- 
ing, 99, 124 ; protest regarding, 
119, 120; says court has no juris- 
diction over him, 125 ; beavers due 
to Claes Gerritsen, 135, 142, 144; 
restitution of beavers, 228; men- 
tioned, 15 

Van Slingerlant, Teunis Corneliscn, 
185, 268 

Van Slyck, Cornelis, see Teunisscn, 
Cornells 

Van Thienhooven. Cornelis, 62, 66 

Van Twiller (Twillert), Jan (Jo- 
hannes), 141, 186, 296 

Van Valckenburgh, Herman Jansen, 
203, 204, 206, 208 

Van Valckenburgh, Lambert, sum- 
moned to court, 131 ; dispute 
with Herpertsen, 136; requests 
a lot, 185 ; testimony, 252 ; 
sued for debt, 34; by Goosen 
Gerritsen, 292 

Van Vechten, Teunis Cornelisen, 233 

Van Voorhout (Wip), Claes Cor- 
nelissen, 235 

Van Voorhout, Seeger Cornelissen, 
see Cornelissen, Seeger 

Van Westbroeck (Bos), Cornelis 
Teunissen. on committee to 
oversee surveying of lots, 16; 
appearance in court, 18; 



COURT MINUTES. 1652-1656 



325 



Van W'estbroeck (Bos), Cornelis 
Teunissen — Cofitimted 

referee, 22, 44, 253; surety, 49, 
263 ; letter to from members 
of court, 113; memorandum 
for, 114; magistrate, 126; 
lease of house, 130; term of 
office expired, 139; questioned 
in court on various matters, 
158, 168; loan of money to 
Director General, 162 ; attor- 
ns}', 275 ; requests lot for 
Mingael, 297; 
sues Jacobsen, 153; Croaet, 300 
Van Ysselsteyn, Marten Cornelisen, 

244 
Vastrick, Gerrit, 137 
Vastrick, Robbert, 137, 235 
Vedder (Vetter), Harmen, 22g 
Veeder, Symon Volckertsen, see 

Volckertsen, Symon 
Verbeeck, Jan, takes burgher oath, 
17; complaint about boy running 
away, 22; referee, 27, 64, 254, 277; 
to provide for support of church, 
28 ; sued for debt. 29, 30 ; magis- 
trate, 126, 236; sues Coninck, 149; 
gives presents to Maquas, 171; on 
committee to confer with Director 
General, 174; appointed treasurer 
of court, 214, 215; ordered to build 
on lot, 263 ; mentioned, 164 
Vervelen (Verwegen), Daniel, 225, 

232 
Visbeeck (Viesbeeck), Gerrit, 303 
Visscher, Harmen Bastiaensen, see 

Bastiaensen, Harmen 
Vogel (Voogel), Arent Cornelisen, 

35, 39, 40, 102, 207, 246 
Volckertsen, Symon, baker, 67, 201 
Vos, Cornelis, garden, 158; lot, 159; 
loan of money to Director 
General, 163 ; accused of giv- 
ing nicknames to houses, 198; 
house nicknamed, 201 ; missing 
tub of butter, 209; summoned 
to court for giving nicknames, 
210 ; not guilty, 213; replica- 
tion to answer filed by, 218; 



Vos, Cornelis — Continued 

sued by Adriaensen, 121 ; for 
debt. 284; by Barentsen, 297, 
301, 302. 305, 306 

V^os, Hans, 248 

Vosburgh, Abraham Pielersen, house, 
15, 266; surveys by, 16, 17, 
117; referee, 27; indebtedness, 
102 ; petition to tap beer, 65 ; 
part payment on bridges, 123 ; 
to begin bridge, 138; faulty 
surveying, 146; bridge not 
built, 149; de Vos answers 
complaints about, 155; lot, 
158, 159, 213, 217, 245; petition 
of, 160; ordered to appear in 
court, 160-61, 164, 297; replica- 
tion again to be sent to, 160, 
164 ; arbitration of dispute, 
173; wife, 174, 176; payment 
for bridges, 178; sues Lam- 
mertsen, 235; disputed ac- 
counts, 281; mentioned, 112, 

157; 

sued for debt, 38, 58, 212, 235, 
250 ; by Ryverdingh, 247 ; by 
Pastoor, 247, 250, 253, 297, 
301 ; by Maritge Dyckmans, 
250; by Gerritsen, 274, 278; by 
van Ekel, 291, 296, 298; by 
Cobes, 297 

Vrooman, Pieter Meussen, see Meus- 
sen (Messen), Pieter 

Vylens, Claes, 302 

Waeye, Keese, an Indian messenger, 

156 
Wemp, Jan Barentsen, 89, 209, 2io. 

See also Poest, Jan Barentsen 
W'endel, Evert Jansen, 163, 199, 205, 

226, 245 
W'esselsen (Becker), Jochem, the 
baker, wife, 17, 21, 26; pigsty, 
22; judgment against, 48, 241; 
to pay fine, 61-62, 66, 130, 249, 
280; testimony in trial of 
Jacob Stol, 103 ; attack on by 
Stol, 105; to sheet bank of 



^2^ 



FORT ORANGE AND REVERWYCK 



Wesselsen (Becker), Jochem — Con- 
tinued 

kill, 141 ; loan of money to 
Director General, 162 ; testi- 
mony regarding sale of brandy 
to savages, 164, 167 ; statement 
regarding nicknames of 
houses, 199; request concern- 
ing Jurriaensen's house, 199, 
210, 238, 255 ; quarrel with 
Slichtenhorst, 227, 229, 234, 
237, 241 ; petition presented by, 
229; sells to savages, 242, 243; 
denies selling to savages, 250 ; 
gift for repairing Jurriaen- 
sen's house, 256; beavers in 
custody of, 274 ; request for a 
garden, 299; 

prosecuted for abusive language 
and assault, 23; for violating 
ordinance on baking, 55, 61, 
251, 280; for fighting, 117, 130, 
227, 229, 237, 238, 241 ; about 
beer found among savages, 
213, 215; by de Deckere, 233, 
248, 250, 277; 

sues Van Hoesen, 47, 49, 65 ; 
Rinckhout, 175; Hoffmeyer, 
298; 



Wesselsen (Becker), Jochem — Con- 
tinned 

sued for slander, 18, 19, 25 ; for 
debt, 32; about a lot, 52, 119; 
by Labatie, 58; for assault, 
73; for shooting a dog, 140; 
by Bamboes, 279; by Jacobsen, 
282 
Westerkamp, Femmetgen, 182. See 

also Alberts, Femmetgen 
Westerkamp, Hendrick Jansen, virife, 
26, 182; sued for debt, 32, 34; 
testimony, 62; mentioned, 73 
Wever, see Martensen, Jan 
Willems, Margriet, 22 
Willemsen, Jacob, prosecuted for 
fighting, 117, 130; dispute about 
chest, 214, 215 ; petition presented 
by, 229; testimony, 241, 242; gift 
for repairing Jurriaensen's house, 
256 ; sues Wesselsen, 274 
Winnen (Winne), Pieter, 72. See 

also De Vlamingh, Pieter 
Wip, Claes, see Van Voorhout, Claes 

Cornelissen 
Witbeck, Jan Thomassen, see 

Thomassen, Jan 
Witmont, Jan, 213, 214, 220 
Witthardt (Withart). Tan, 134, 135 



